Transforming Sugar Mills: India's Push for Bio-Refineries

ISMA has proposed a plan to the government to convert sugar mills into bio-refineries, aiming to enhance the production of sustainable aviation fuel and other green energy sources. This initiative supports India's international aviation blending targets and aims to boost farmer incomes and energy security.

The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) unveiled a transformative plan on Thursday to convert sugar mills into bio-refineries. The strategy aims to scale up production of sustainable aviation fuel and other renewable energy sources.

Representatives from ISMA engaged with Food Minister Pralhad Joshi to discuss the policy framework necessary for the transition. The dialogue aimed to extend current ethanol, bioelectricity, and biogas production capacities.

ISMA Director General Deepak Ballani emphasized that this initiative will help India meet its 2027 international aviation blending targets per CORSIA mandates, while also promoting the country's net-zero and self-reliance goals. The plan aspires to create alternative markets for India's 55 million sugarcane farmers, expanding on the success of the current ethanol blending programme.

The government inaugurated 400 E-100 fuel pumps last year and Minister Joshi underscored the need to advocate for E-100 usage. ISMA committed to collaborate closely with the government to ensure the swift implementation of the plan, which is anticipated to set new industry benchmarks and fortify India's energy security.

(With inputs from agencies.)