Over the past decade, India has significantly expanded its bioenergy capacity, driven by various government initiatives and schemes. The country has added 2,361 MW of biomass-based power capacity, 228 MWe of waste-to-energy capacity, and 2.88 lakh biogas plants across the country. This expansion has been supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) through multiple central government schemes, including the National Bioenergy Programme (NBP) Phase-I, which has a total budget outlay of INR 998 crore for the period 2022-23 to 2025-26.
The government has promoted bioenergy projects through several flagship initiatives, including the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme and the New National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme. The current NBP framework provides central financial assistance for a wide range of technologies, including biogas and Bio-CNG plants, biomass and agro-industrial waste-based power projects, and biomass gasifiers. Special provisions are also in place to provide 20% higher central financial assistance for projects in the North Eastern Region, islands, and registered gaushalas, as well as for SC/ST beneficiaries.
The state-wise data shows that Maharashtra leads the country with over 1,073 MW of biomass capacity and more than 71,000 biogas plants, followed by Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu. In waste-to-energy capacity, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi have emerged as key contributors. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has noted that new bioenergy projects continue to be promoted under NBP Phase-I, aligning with India’s broader clean energy transition, waste management goals, and efforts to enhance rural energy access.
The expansion of bioenergy capacity in India is expected to contribute to the country’s clean energy transition and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The government’s initiatives and schemes have played a crucial role in promoting the development of bioenergy projects, and the sector is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. With the support of the government and the private sector, India is on track to achieve its renewable energy targets and reduce its carbon footprint. Overall, the expansion of bioenergy capacity in India is a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy mix.