Mandatory Biogas Blending in India from Apr 2025: What is Biogas? Uses, Composition, Source, Read in Detail..

Mandatory Biogas Blending in India from 2025-26

In a significant move towards sustainable energy practices, the Indian government has unveiled a comprehensive plan for the mandatory blending of compressed biogas (CBG) in both the transportation and domestic segments within the city gas distribution (CGD) sector. Termed as the Compulsory Blending Obligation (CBO), this initiative aims to not only boost the production and consumption of CBG but also address the country’s increasing dependence on natural gas imports.

The Roadmap: Mandatory Biogas Blending in India

The National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC) recently granted approval for the obligatory blending of CBG with compressed natural gas (CNG) for transportation and piped natural gas (PNG) for households, set to commence in the fiscal year 2025-26 (FY26). The blending obligation starts at 1 per cent for FY26, escalates to 3 per cent in FY27, and further increases to 4 per cent in FY28. Looking ahead, the mandate aims for 5 per cent blending starting FY29. A Central Repository Body (CRB) will oversee the monitoring and implementation of this blending mandate.

You can read more about ‘Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT)‘ initiative by GoI on following link: SATAT

Key Objectives of Compulsory Blending Obligation (CBO)

The CBO has multifaceted objectives, strategically designed to invigorate the demand for CBG in the CGD sector. It seeks to foster import substitution for liquefied natural gas (LNG), resulting in substantial foreign exchange savings. Additionally, the initiative aligns with the promotion of a circular economy and plays a pivotal role in assisting India in achieving its net-zero emission targets.

What is Biogas?

Biogas, the focal point of this initiative, is an energy-rich gas produced through the anaerobic decomposition of biomass. Various sources contribute to its production, including agriculture residue, cattle dung, sugarcane press mud, municipal solid waste, and sewage treatment plant waste. It can be used directly as a fuel or undergo a purification process to become compressed biogas (CBG), boasting a methane content exceeding 90%, comparable to commercially available natural gas.

Composition of Biogas

In terms of composition, biogas typically comprises 50-75% methane, 25-50% carbon dioxide, and 2-8% nitrogen, along with trace gases such as nitrous oxide and hydrogen sulfide. The production process involves a multistage anaerobic digestion process, utilizing raw materials like cattle dung, night soil, and agricultural wastes.

Why Biogas is a Good Fuel?

One of the compelling reasons for promoting biogas is its environmental friendliness. The process of biogas production involves no combustion, resulting in zero greenhouse gas emissions. With up to 75% methane content, biogas stands out as an ideal fuel, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse emissions and aligning with global sustainability goals.

What is the Colour of Biogas?

The color of the flame on the combustion of biogas from organic waste has a blue color with a reddish yellow mixture. The flame from burning biogas with a starter of cow dung and goat manure has more reddish color compared to biogas from organic waste with leachate as a starter.

What is the Best Source of Biogas?

Livestock wastes constitute the most used substrate for biogas generation. Manure from poultry, cattle, and pigs are all good examples of this waste. This organic matter can be subjected to controlled decomposition to yield good quantities of biomethane.

Biogas in India: A Game-Changer for Energy Security

As a nation heavily reliant on natural gas imports to fulfill nearly half of its requirements, India’s move towards embracing biogas assumes strategic significance. With natural gas consumption poised to increase, the government aims to elevate the share of natural gas in the primary energy mix to 15% by 2030, up from the current 6%. The increased production of CBG emerges as a pivotal factor in realizing this ambitious goal, potentially reducing India’s dependence on natural gas imports.

Conclusion: A Greener Tomorrow with Biogas Blending in India

The announcement of mandatory biogas blending in India marks a transformative step towards a more sustainable and self-reliant energy future. The phased implementation of the blending obligation underscores a commitment to gradual integration and the development of a robust biogas ecosystem. As the nation embraces this eco-friendly fuel source, it not only addresses environmental concerns but also strengthens energy security and fosters a circular economy. The journey towards 2025-26 and beyond promises a greener tomorrow for India, powered by the ingenuity of biogas blending.

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