New Delhi: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited has commissioned its second-generation (2G) bioethanol refinery in Bargarh, marking a key step in India’s efforts to expand clean and sustainable fuel production, PSUconnect reported.
The refinery has a production capacity of 100 kilolitres per day and uses rice straw as its main raw material. The plant converts agricultural residue into fuel-grade ethanol using advanced processing methods, helping turn farm waste into a usable energy source.
The project is expected to support the country’s target of blending 20% ethanol with petrol, aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is also in line with the government’s biofuel policy and efforts to improve energy security while lowering emissions.
The facility has been set up as a zero liquid discharge unit, ensuring that no wastewater is released. It also includes systems to separate and reuse materials efficiently, reducing environmental impact.
By using rice straw, which is often burned in fields, the refinery is expected to help reduce air pollution while promoting better use of agricultural waste.
The project has also created new opportunities for farmers by generating demand for crop residue, adding an extra source of income and supporting rural livelihoods.
Officials said the plant was completed with a strong focus on safety, recording around 20 million accident-free work hours during construction.
The commissioning of the Bargarh refinery highlights BPCL’s role in advancing cleaner fuels and supporting India’s transition towards a more sustainable energy system.
