Arvind Limited and Peak Sustainability Ventures have launched India’s first industrial-scale cotton stalk torrefaction facility in Gujarat, marking a significant step towards decarbonizing the country’s textile value chain. The facility uses Finnish torrefaction technology to convert cotton stalks into a high-density, energy-efficient biofuel that can directly replace coal in existing boilers. With an annual processing capacity of over 40,000 tons, the facility can reduce coal consumption by 20% initially, with a clear pathway to achieve 100% substitution.
The initiative is aligned with India’s national priorities and government programs supporting renewable energy and sustainable biomass usage. It positions India at the forefront of circular and low-carbon manufacturing solutions, promoting responsible biomass utilization, reducing open burning of agricultural waste, and strengthening the country’s commitment to a resilient and scalable bioeconomy.
The project is developed under the frameworks of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s National Bioenergy Programme, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare’s Crop Residue Management Scheme, and the Ministry of Power’s initiatives supporting low-carbon energy transitions. The partnership between Arvind Limited and Peak Sustainability Ventures brings together technology adoption, farmer engagement, and industry-led action to accelerate India’s climate goals.
The initiative has several key highlights, including a capacity of 40,000+ tons per annum, location in Gujarat, and a goal to achieve coal-free operations by 2030. The facility is supported by the Apparel Impact Institute and signals a major leap towards coal-free manufacturing. By transforming cotton stalk residues into a renewable, coal-replacing thermal fuel, the initiative reduces emissions, strengthens circularity, farmer livelihoods, and India’s bioenergy ecosystem.
This pioneering initiative is poised to reshape the future of sustainable production in India, with a scalable, technology-backed model that can be replicated across industries. As global textile supply chains accelerate their decarbonization efforts, India now stands at the forefront with a landmark project that can help achieve coal-free textile manufacturing by 2030. The facility’s success can have a significant impact on the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Overall, the initiative is a powerful convergence of innovation, sustainability, and industry leadership, marking a new era in India’s textile and clean energy landscape.