The government is making significant strides to enhance ethanol production by exploring the establishment of specialized enzyme manufacturing facilities as part of its new BioE3 policy.
The department of biotechnology is planning to set up the first such facility in Manesar, Haryana, which will supply enzymes to the upcoming 2G bio-ethanol plants in Mathura, Bhatinda, and Panipat.
The initiative is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on imported enzymes, essential for converting rice stubble into ethanol, a vital element in India’s E20 fuel-blending mandate.
The enzymes, developed by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), have shown promising results in ethanol production trials. In partnership with Praj Industries, ICGEB aims to scale up enzyme production, potentially cutting costs by two-thirds.
As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the effort supports the government’s objective to transition from fossil fuels to bio-based alternatives, utilizing biotechnology to create sustainable energy solutions and consumer products.
