Karnataka collaborates with Germany to strengthen bioenergy sector

The Karnataka State Bioenergy Development Board (KSBDB), under the leadership of Chairman SE Sudheendra, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fachhochschule Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Germany. The MoU is designed to strengthen collaboration in areas such as research, knowledge sharing, education and scientific as well as cultural exchange within the bioenergy sector.

The agreement was formalised with Rector Professor Tamara Appel representing the German institution. The MoU exchange ceremony in Germany was attended by senior officials and representatives from both sides.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Sudheendra underlined the crucial role of clean energy in helping India meet its net zero emissions target by 2070, while also stressing the importance of rural development in this transition.

Through this partnership, both institutions will work together on joint research initiatives, academic exchange programmes, and collaborative events including seminars and workshops. The effort is expected to create new opportunities for innovation and capacity building in sustainable energy.

It has held during the event that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge had extended their strong support for the international collaboration. The state leadership has recognised the value of such partnerships in advancing clean energy solutions.

India – Germany Collaboration

Germany is extending strong support to India in the field of bioenergy and biofuels by providing access to advanced technologies for processing diverse feedstocks, including paddy straw and municipal solid waste. Along with technology transfer, Germany is also sharing valuable lessons from its successful biogas policy, helping India strengthen its own framework for renewable energy.

In addition, German financial institutions are playing an important role by facilitating investments in India’s bioenergy sector. Partnerships between German companies, Indian startups, and research institutions are further expanding the market for biogas, while also promoting sustainable waste management practices across the country.

The German Development Bank has already begun investing in Indian enterprises engaged in clean energy. Notably, it has backed companies such as CEF Group, which is operating under India’s SATAT scheme aimed at boosting compressed biogas production and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.