Praj has recently entered into a binding agreement for cost sharing with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to set up one plant each at Panipat, Haryana and Dahej, Gujarat. These 2nd Generation (2G) bio-ethanol plants will have capacity to produce 100 Kilo litres of ethanol per day. This is a progress milestone as per MoU signed earlier this year wherein IOCL selected Praj as its technology partner for setting up multiple 2G bio-ethanol plants based on its indigenously developed technology.
Additionally, now Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has also selected Praj, as technology partner for setting up one 2G bio-ethanol plant in the state of Orissa having the capacity of 100 Kilo litres of ethanol per day.
Second Generation bio-ethanol technology uses ligno-cellulosic biomass (agri-residue) as feedstock. 2G bio-ethanol also helps reduce dependency on the imported crude oil, thereby saving foreign exchange. This technology will act as a socio-economic and environmental enabler.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pramod Chaudhari, Executive Chairman, Praj Industries Ltd., said, “We are pleased with the progress of setting up of 2G ethanol projects by the OMCs. Praj is equally committed to partner with OMCs in their achievement of completing project targets. This is in line with Govt. of India’s vision of increased contribution of renewables in India’s energy portfolio.