Govt to promote biomass use for energy needs

New Delhi, Nov 5 (UNI) The government will promote technologies for increasing enhanced utilisation of biomass for production of energy in food and fruit processing industries.

''The New and Renewable Energy ministry has decided to apply special focus to urban industrial wastes,'' an official statement said.

Three main technologies being promoted by the ministry include bagasse-based cogeneration in sugar mills, bio-mass power generation and bio-mass gasification for thermal and electrical applications, Secretary to the department V Subramanian said.

''The technology is same, the efficiency will vary, hence each industry will have to implant to get maximum benefits,'' the statement added.

Referring to solar heating system used for drier in chilly, papad and even condoms industries, Mr Subramanian said renewable energy is doable, profitable and environment-friendly.

He assured of all technical support and interest subsidy.

There is tremendous scope for captive power generation in the industries like dairies, starch, poultry, slaughter houses, oil extraction, breweries etc. The potential for cogeneration projects is estimated at 3500 MW of additional power generation from existing wastes from industries.

UNI