Feedstock from sugar cane byproducts

India, Mumbai

Three cooperative sugar factories from Maharashtra state are reportedly planning to produce biomethane from sugarcane biomass, using German finance and technological know-how. Hindu Business Line reports the new initiative could provide the rural population with access to alternative fuel, an option hitherto only available to city dwellers.

Production costs are estimated at Rs 22-24 ($US0.56) per kg, cheaper than diesel fuel.  Dr Virendra K. Vijay of IIT-Delhi, a researcher on biogas, is quoted as saying that production costs could even come down to Rs 15 per kg.

The German Investment and Development Company (DEG) has apparently earmarked €15 million for lending to the factories for the conversion of press mud and spent wash into biomethane. German firms Enersearch and Biogas Nord would provide the technical know-how and machinery for the projects.

The story also suggests funding may be available from the Sugar Technology Fund of the Maharashtra Union Government.