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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will dedicate the 2nd generation (2G) ethanol plant in Panipat, Haryana to the nation on 10 August 2022 at 4:30 p.m. via videoconference.
It is part of a series of steps taken by the government over the years to increase the production and use of biofuels in the country. The Prime Minister has continuously endeavoured to transform the energy sector into one that is more affordable, accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
An estimated cost of over Rs. 900 crores have been incurred by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for the construction of the 2G Ethanol Plant near the Panipat Refinery. In utilizing state-of-the-art indigenous technology, the project will inaugurate a new chapter in India’s waste-to-wealth endeavours by generating around 3 crore litres of ethanol annually by using around 2 lakh tonnes of rice straw (parali).
By developing an end-use for agri-crop residue, farmers will be empowered and will be able to generate additional income. It is anticipated that the project will provide direct employment to those involved in the plant operation, as well as indirect employment to those involved in the supply chain for the cutting, handling, and storage of rice straw.
There will be no liquid discharge from the project. As a result of the reduction in burning rice straw (parali), the project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 3 lakh tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, which is approximately equivalent to replacing approximately 63,000 cars on the country’s roads each year.
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