Maharashtra, India — In a landmark step toward green energy, Maharashtra has inaugurated India’s first cooperative multi‑feed Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant, with plans to replicate the model in 15 more cooperative sugar mills across the country.
🏭 Key Details
- The plant has been established at the Maharshi Shankarrao Kolhe Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana in Kopargaon, Ahilyanagar district.
- It was inaugurated by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on 5 October 2025.
- The investment in the project is approximately ₹55 crore.
⚙️ What It Will Produce
- Compressed Biogas (CBG): about 12 tonnes per day.
- Potash Granules: about 75 tonnes per day, derived from jaggery/molasses by‑products.
- Also includes a spray dryer and potash granulation facility, to make better use of by‑products and reduce waste.
🌱 Why It Matters
- Reduces dependency on imports for both biogas and potash.
- Supports sustainable agriculture and circular economy: using agricultural residues, jaggery/molasses by‑products, press‑mud etc.
- Provides a new income stream for farmers and cooperatives.
🔜 What’s Next
- The central government, through the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), will support 15 other cooperative sugar mills across India to set up similar CBG + potash projects.
- Focus is on scaling this model to achieve cleaner energy, waste management, and reduced import burdens.
