Biogas Technology Training Program Launched

The programme will include sessions on the design, operation, and maintenance of biogas plants, along with skill development and safety protocols.

A national hands-on training programme focused on “Biogas Technology and its Implementation” was officially inaugurated on Monday by Dr. G Sridhar, the Director General of the Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy (SSS-NIBE). This event marks a significant step toward enhancing India’s capabilities in the bioenergy sector, offering participants valuable knowledge and skills that can contribute to the country’s sustainable energy future. The initiative aims to equip professionals, industry experts, and stakeholders with the necessary tools to advance bioenergy technologies, particularly in the area of biogas production.

The programme is being jointly organized by the Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy (SSS-NIBE) based in Kapurthala and the Indian Biogas Association. This collaboration brings together experts and institutions from across the bioenergy sector, with the shared goal of promoting the growth and adoption of biogas technologies in India. The training will run until October 25, providing participants with comprehensive sessions on the design, development, and implementation of biogas systems, along with practical skills required for their operation and maintenance.

During the inauguration, Dr. Sridhar emphasized the importance of innovation in the bioenergy sector and the effective implementation of modern bioenergy solutions. He also highlighted that NIBE has developed a range of technologies for producing biogas from agricultural residues and 2G ethanol. As an R&D institute, Dr. Sridhar assured that SSS-NIBE is ready to provide technical support to industries in the sector, addressing the challenges they face.

Adarsh Pal Vig, Chairman of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, was the chief guest at the event. Also in attendance were Gaurav Kedia, Chairman of the Indian Biogas Association, and Dr. Sachin Kumar, Scientist and Coordinator of the programme at SSS-NIBE.

The five-day training programme will cover a range of topics, including the design, development, operation, and maintenance of biogas plants, biogas production and upgrading processes, financing options, carbon credits, skill development, and safety protocols.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Sachin Kumar provided an overview of the biogas industry and outlined the schedule and objectives of the programme for the participants.

Chief guest Adarsh Pal Vig said, “Every waste is a resource. Concepts of reuse and recycling have always been a part of our culture and there is a need for circularity in the bioenergy systems as well.”

Dr. Sridhar further emphasized that bioenergy presents an effective ex-situ method for managing agricultural residues and livestock waste. He urged industries to ensure strict adherence to environmental regulations in their projects, stressing that such compliance is essential for the success and sustainability of the sector.

Gaurav Kedia underscored the importance of tapping into the potential of biogas in India, particularly for enhancing energy security and combating climate change. He also highlighted the critical connection between biogas development and the welfare of farmers, pointing out how it could positively impact rural livelihoods.

As an autonomous institution under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, SSS-NIBE has been a pioneering force in the bioenergy sector for over 14 years, with its research focusing on thermophilic biogas production and upgrading technologies. The institute also regularly organizes skill development and capacity-building programmes to support the growth of the bioenergy field.

The training programme has attracted over 70 participants, including professionals, enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, government officials, academicians, and researchers. It will feature presentations from senior experts representing organizations such as PAU Ludhiana, IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, UNIDO, IBA, and various industry leaders. Additionally, the programme will offer practical hands-on sessions and a field visit to a Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant in Punjab, providing participants with real-world exposure to the industry.

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