Bamboo Power: Assam's Bioethanol Plant Shaping a Greener Future

The Assam Bio Ethanol Pvt Ltd is collaborating with over 30,000 farmers to source bamboo for its unique second-generation bioethanol plant in Numaligarh, Assam. This pioneering facility, a joint venture, aims to stabilize full production soon and is expected to significantly benefit the rural economy and promote sustainable practices.

The Assam Bio Ethanol Pvt Ltd (ABEPL) is set to collaborate with more than 30,000 farmers over the next three years to source bamboo for its second-generation bioethanol plant, a senior official revealed. The Rs 4,930-crore plant, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, is undergoing stabilization due to limited raw material availability.

ABEPL Chief Executive Officer Rupjyoti Hazarika explained that the plant at Numaligarh in Assam is the world's only commercial facility using bamboo as raw material for bioethanol production. This initiative differs from first-generation plants, which typically use food crops. The plant also plans to produce furfural, acetic acid, liquid CO2, and green power annually.

The plant requires 12,500 hectares of bamboo plantations to achieve full production capacity. So far, over 4,200 farmers have registered to supply bamboo, with plans to increase this number to 30,000 across a 300-km radius. The venture is anticipated to contribute Rs 200-crore to Assam's rural economy, promoting sustainability and carbon neutrality.

(With inputs from agencies.)