Farmers in Bokaro district have embarked on an ambitious plan to produce bio-coal for use in thermal power plants, in line with the Centre’s mandate requiring all plants to use at least 7% biomass fuel by 2026. The initiative, spearheaded by Chandrapura Prakhand Krishak Utpadak Sahkari Samiti Ltd., aims to reduce air pollution from coal-based power generation while opening up a new income stream for local cultivators.
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Napier Grass Cultivation and Plant Setup Underway
Farmers’ fields in Chandrapura block are being sown with Napier grass, the primary raw material for bio-coal. Machines for processing the biomass are being procured with support from the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), and the plant for bio-coal preparation is expected to be operational by December-2025. DVC has already floated a tender for biomass procurement, while producers within 300 km will be allowed to sell bio-coal based on expression of interest rather than competitive bidding.
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Economic and Environmental Gains
According to Anil Mahato, CEO of the cooperative society and a forestry graduate from BAU, three kilograms of Napier grass will yield one kilogram of bio-coal and nearly 900 grams of liquid by-product, which can be sold as animal feed. Bio-coal is expected to fetch around Rs. 11 per kg, offering farmers a steady source of income. With a calorific value of 4000–5000 kcal, bio-coal is suitable for blending with coal in thermal power plants, thus reducing emissions and cutting pollution tax liabilities.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to decarbonize India’s energy mix and promote a circular economy in rural areas.
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