BPCL Launches 2G Ethanol Refinery in Bargarh

BARGARH — Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has commissioned its state-of-the-art Second-Generation (2G) Bioethanol Refinery in Odisha. The facility, which became operational on March 20, 2026, represents a ₹1,775 crore investment in India’s green energy infrastructure and the "Waste-to-Wealth" mission.

Key Highlights

• Capacity: Produces 100 kilolitres per day (KLPD) of fuel-grade ethanol.
• Feedstock: Processes rice straw (stubble), helping to curb field burning and seasonal air pollution.
• Technology: Employs advanced lignocellulosic technology (provided by Praj Industries) to convert agricultural waste into renewable fuel.
• Environmental Impact: Operates as a Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) plant, recycling 100% of its process water.

Strategic Importance

The refinery’s launch is timed with the April 1, 2026, mandate for E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol across India. By producing ethanol domestically from crop waste, the project reduces reliance on expensive crude imports—critical during the current Strait of Hormuz supply disruptions—while providing local farmers with a new revenue stream for their agricultural residue.