Sistema.bio to set up 2,250 domestic biogas plants in India’s largest state

Sistema.bio, a global social enterprise recognized for its pioneering biogas technology, is set to install 2,250 domestic biogas plants across rural areas in Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, Ayodhya, Gonda, and Gorakhpur. The state’s environment ministry has approved the project with each plant costing Rs 39,300 only.

Sistema.bio is a suite of technology, training, and financing that creates infrastructure and capacity in farms to convert waste into renewable energy and fertilizer.

In Uttar Pradesh project, AK Saxena, Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (independent charge), informed that farmers will only need to contribute Rs 3,990 and the remaining cost will be covered through central financial assistance and carbon credits.

In addition to providing biogas for cooking, the plants will generate organic bio-manure, aiding local farming efforts. This new biogas program is also in line with the MNRE Ministry’s target of establishing 2,250 biogas plants in Uttar Pradesh for FY 2024-25.

Sistema.bio says that it has built a platform to reach farmers and partners at scale. The company says that by transforming animal waste into bioenergy and organic fertilizer, their advanced biodigester technology enables farmers to generate their own thermal and mechanical energy. This not only significantly improves their livelihoods but also lays the foundation for regenerative agriculture through the use of organic fertilizer.

The biogas projects can also take farm wastes as feedstocks for greater clean gas output.

Sistema.bio also mentions that the firm caters to various types of feedstock and diverse weather conditions, ensuring optimal performance. By integrating the biodigesters with a variety of fertilizing and biogas technologies, including stoves, boilers, and engines, Sistema.bio enhance farmers’ productivity and efficiency.

Sistema.bio recently announced that it has secured $15 million in a funding round led by ElectriFI, managed by EDFI Management Co., and the funds will be used to expand operations, advance technology and enhance customer service.

The firm has just joined forces with Saudi Arabia’s Forward7 Initiative to launch a similar initiative to provide ‘subsidized biodigesters’ to small farm holders in Nepal and Indonesia.