Godavari Biorefineries Ltd is set to commission its grain and maize-based ethanol plant in North Karnataka during the current quarter, marking a significant step in the company’s strategy to diversify its ethanol feedstock base and expand renewable fuel production capacity. The new facility will strengthen the company’s ethanol manufacturing capabilities while supporting India’s growing biofuel and ethanol blending initiatives.
Facility to Add Two Lakh Litres Per Day Capacity
According to Samir Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of Godavari Biorefineries Ltd, the maize and grain-based facility will add nearly 2 lakh litres per day to the company’s ethanol production capacity. The facility is being developed alongside the company’s existing sugar and ethanol operations in North Karnataka, enabling operational synergies and efficient utilization of infrastructure. Following commissioning, Godavari Biorefineries’ total daily ethanol production capacity is expected to increase from around 6 lakh litres to nearly 8 lakh litres.
Annual Ethanol Output to Rise Significantly
On an annualized basis, the company expects ethanol production to rise substantially from nearly 10 crore litres to approximately 16 crore litres after commercial operations begin at the new unit. The expansion is expected to strengthen the company’s position in India’s rapidly growing ethanol market, driven by rising demand for cleaner fuels and government-led ethanol blending programs.
Investment Supports Feedstock Diversification
Godavari Biorefineries has invested around ₹130 crore in the maize and grain-based ethanol project. The move toward grain and maize-based ethanol production reflects the company’s broader strategy to diversify feedstock sources beyond sugar-based ethanol manufacturing. This approach is expected to improve supply flexibility while supporting year-round ethanol production.
Supporting India’s Biofuel and Energy Transition Goals
India continues to accelerate its ethanol blending targets as part of its broader energy security and decarbonization strategy. Grain-based ethanol facilities are increasingly becoming an important component of the country’s biofuel ecosystem, helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels and crude oil imports. As reported by chinimandi.com, with the commissioning of the North Karnataka facility, Godavari Biorefineries aims to strengthen its contribution to India’s renewable energy transition while expanding its presence in the biofuels sector.
