Midwest looks to make ethanol for Chilika boats in Odisha

As Odisha takes firm steps toward a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, Midwest Limited has proposed establishing a greenfield ethanol plant in the state’s coastal region. The company recently presented its vision at Lok Seva Bhawan, outlining its plans to produce ethanol as an alternative fuel and promote its widespread use.

The Odisha government is actively supporting this initiative as part of its broader environmental commitment. By encouraging the use of ethanol made from agricultural waste, the state aims to curb pollution and reduce reliance on conventional fossil fuels.

During the presentation, Midwest highlighted a promising application wherein it will be offering ethanol-blended fuel for boats operating on Chilika Lake. This aligns with the Central Government’s target of blending ethanol into diesel to lower carbon emissions. Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo expressed optimism and his confidence that Odisha would play a leading role in achieving these national sustainability goals.

The proposed ethanol will be produced from paddy straw and other crop residues. These agriculture materials are often burned by farmers, contributing to severe air pollution. By purchasing this waste directly from farmers, Midwest aims to not only mitigate pollution but also create new income opportunities for rural communities.

The new ethanol production unit is expected to boost local employment, strengthen the rural economy, and reduce the physical burden of traditional farming practices.

In addition to paddy straw, the facility may utilize other crop residues, including sugarcane bagasse, maize stalks, and bajra by-products, further expanding its feedstock base.

The high-level meeting was attended by prominent state leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo, Law and Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, and Industries Minister Sampada Chandra Swain. Senior officials such as Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee (Principal Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment), Vishal Deb (Principal Secretary, Energy), Balwant Singh (Commissioner and Secretary, Tourism) and Bhupendra Singh Punia (Managing Director, EPCL) were also present.

Recently, Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi informed that 29 ethanol projects in Odisha received approval under the Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme by the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD). The 200 KLPD integrated ethanol plant at Bargarh being built by BPCL is also approaching completion.