Biofuels and bioproducts in India

Abstract

This chapter presents a comprehensive case study for second-generation biofuels represented by the agricultural residues to ethanol process in India. It is feasible to replace about 20%-30% of the petrol requirements of India through biofuels. A detailed resource assessment is made along with the comprehensive techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment. The analysis indicates that there are significant supply chain issues that could impede the achievement of the biofuel mandates. The techno-economic analysis indicates a process that is profitable but subject to market variations. The environmental impacts of biofuels are lower especially in the greenhouse gas emissions but have larger impacts in water consumption. The policy analysis indicates support for biofuels although some of the areas regarding feedstock availability are not comprehensively addressed. Analysis of social factors indicates that the markets will generate additional pull for the second-generation biofuels with increasing awareness and incomes of the Indian population. © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.