India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in biomass energy. India has a huge population of more than 1.4 billion which is harnessing the power of biomass, including agricultural residues, animal waste and organic matter as a crucial component of its renewable energy strategy. India’s installed biomass power capacity as of FY23 is more than 200 GW. India plans to further expand its non-fossil fuel energy by FY30 to 500 GW.  It is fostering economic development in rural areas, providing additional income to farmers by converting agricultural waste into energy. This is also resourceful in mitigating preemptive environmental pollution caused by burning crop residues.

India’s power consumption increased by 5.14% to 125.44 billion units in November FY24, compared to the same month in FY23. November FY24 had been the warmest in the last four years, the slowly approaching winter in India has reduced the need for heating appliances such as geysers and heaters. Despite this, experts predict the demand and consumption to remain steady in the coming days.

India has committed to the Paris Agreement to increase its renewable energy share. This has boosted the biomass sector. Biomass offers a stable energy source that complements solar and wind power. This increases the energy security of the nation. The government of India is contributing significantly to the growth of the renewable energy sector with a focus on centralized schemes such as the National Biofuels Policy and the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM). These schemes tend to promote the use of renewable energy by providing financial incentives and grants. Moreover, biomass energy reduces carbon emissions, improves air quality, and limits deforestation. India is a key player globally in energy transition, contributing sustainably to sustainability and inclusive development.