HPCL vows to develop 10 CBG projects in Punjab: CM Bhagwant Mann

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has claimed that the Centre owned PSU Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) will be developing 10 compressed biogas (CBG) projects across the state. Mann has called the CBG projects a major step toward tackling agricultural waste and boosting rural economic growth.

Out of the 10 planned CBG plants, five have already been commissioned, with the remaining units progressing steadily. Bhagwant Mann said these projects will play a transformative role in managing crop residue, a persistent challenge in Punjab, while also generating clean energy and additional income streams for farmers.

The Chief Minister made these remarks after a meeting with HPCL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Vikas Kaushal in Chandigarh, where discussions centered on expanding investments in Punjab’s energy and petroleum sectors.

Emphasising the importance of the CBG initiative, Mann said the plants would convert agricultural waste into valuable biofuel, reducing dependence on traditional fuels and helping curb environmental pollution caused by stubble burning. He noted that the CBG projects would not only address ecological concerns but also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in rural areas.

“The establishment of these 10 CBG plants marks a significant milestone in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening the state’s bio-energy ecosystem,” Mann said, adding that farmers stand to benefit directly through better waste utilisation and additional revenue avenues.

The Chief Minister also reiterated the state government’s commitment to fully support HPCL’s initiatives, assuring a conducive and transparent environment for industrial investment. He said Punjab is actively positioning itself as a preferred destination for energy sector investments, with a focus on long-term growth and job creation.

In addition to the CBG projects, he noted that HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited is expanding its operations in Bathinda with second-generation (2G) biofuel technology, further reinforcing the state’s push toward sustainable energy solutions.

Senior state officials, including Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and other key departmental representatives, were present during the meeting.

The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has recently stated that it plans to launch four CBG plants in 2026-27 in various districts. Moreover, Germany-based bioenergy conglomerate Verbio Group revealed that its expanding operations in India with plans to establish around 10 new CBG plants in Punjab.