PNGRB approves guidelines for CBG injection into gas grids

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has approved comprehensive guidelines for the injection of Compressed Biogas (CBG) into Natural Gas Pipeline (NGPL) and City Gas Distribution (CGD) networks. The decision has paved the way for streamlined integration of green gas into India’s existing gas infrastructure.

The move marks a significant step toward enabling grid-based evacuation of CBG and addressing a long-standing gap in the sector’s ecosystem. By laying down a clear, transparent and standardised framework, PNGRB looks to facilitate infrastructure development by CBG project developers, CGD entities, technology providers and investors.

The new guidelines are expected to enhance project viability through assured market access, improve financing prospects and accelerate the scale-up of CBG production nationwide.

Result of Extensive Exercise

Developed through an extensive consultative process, the framework was shaped by a Technical Committee comprising representatives from CBG producers, CGD entities and pipeline operators. The draft guidelines were placed in the public domain for stakeholder feedback and further deliberated during an Open House meeting before being finalised. Key inputs relating to CBG quality analysers, calibration practices, safety instrumentation, cluster-based pipeline connectivity under the DPI Scheme and Integrity Management Systems have been incorporated.

The approved guidelines outline design and technical standards aligned with existing safety regulations, specify CBG quality norms referencing Access Code Regulations and BIS standards, and detail installation, operational, monitoring and maintenance protocols. Safety provisions, including odorisation and control systems, have also been mandated. Illustrative schematic drawings have been included to ensure uniform implementation.

The integration of CBG into the natural gas grid is expected to boost domestic green gas availability, reduce LNG imports, strengthen energy security and advance India’s climate goals, while also generating rural income, employment and circular economy benefits.