Biofuel Adoption: A Help or Hindrance to India’s Economic Growth?

India has the largest democracy and is currently the most populous country in the world. This means we’re also one of the fastest growing economies. Right now, we’re the 6th largest.

There are many reasons for economic stress. One amongst the top is that we’re highly dependent on imported fossil fuels. Will the adoption of biofuels ease or increase this stress?

To reduce import dependence, the Indian government launched the E-20 roadmap. E20 is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% regular fuel. Using E20 fuel can save Rs.30,000 crore of foreign exchange every year. It can also improve our energy security and lower greenhouse gas emissions. It can create new industries and jobs, reduce fuel prices and increase income for farmers. However, biofuel production also needs initial investments and a streamlined flow of resources.

Like any manufacturing industry, biofuel production requires both raw materials and human resources. First, there’s feedstock collection and aggregation. Then there’s biofuel processing and distribution. This will create many new jobs, specifically in unskilled and semi-skilled roles. According to the National Policy on Biofuels, one 100 klpd 2G biorefinery plant can contribute 1200 jobs. These roles will involve plant operations, village-level entrepreneurs, and supply chain management.

India’s import of crude oil and gas is a huge burden on our economy. Biofuels are a suitable alternative for this import. It has the potential to improve energy security and help the economy. We are spending $160 billion on energy imports each year. Implementing the E20 program of ethanol blending alone can save $4 billion every year.

India’s dedication to sustainable fuels is evident. The impact of the E20 program has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 27 lakh tonnes. And farmers across the country contributing to this have earned Rs.40,600 crore. Cutting import costs will ultimately reduce the fuel prices for us, end users.

The sugarcane industry is a major source for ethanol production. Especially in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. The E20 program has opened a new market for sugarcane farmers. They now sell their surplus molasses and juice as ethanol. This is a byproduct of refining sugarcane to sugar. Earlier, their income was solely dependent on the market’s sugar prices. With sugarcane molasses, they have an extra source of passive income.

While the biofuel industry empowers local communities and the economy, it also has a few downsides. Compared to other forms of conventional energy, infrastructure for biofuels is limited. Scaling production with available resources is not easy.

The 1st petroleum refinery was set up in 1901 in Assam. Since then, the industry has grown tremendously over the last 100 years. Biofuel production has begun growing only in the last 15 years. From sourcing feedstock, setting up refineries, storage and transportation, India needs to invest time and money to build them all.

Apart from infrastructure, the biofuel industry also needs extensive R&D to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness at scale. Collaboration from both the government and private sectors will help overcome these challenges.

The biofuel sector in India has significant potential for growth. The government’s initiatives have already provided space for investment and expansion. With the right policies, research and investments, biofuels can drive India’s economic growth. The industry creates new jobs. It increases India’s resilience to global changes in energy prices. It improves energy security and strengthens our measures for a sustainable future.