Cost and Benefit Analysis of Bio Energy Alternatives in India

As a move towards sustainable low carbon growth, there are number of mitigation measures like energy efficiency, fuel switch, technologies and demand management which have been identified to reduce green house gas emission. The major reduction opportunities of GHGs involve improving the efficiency with which the energy is used and the transition towards alternative sources of energy. The sustainable use of bio energy presents an opportunity to address climate change by reducing fossil based carbon dioxide emissions. Biomass energy sources include: agricultural crops and residues; dedicated energy crops; forestry products and residues; residues and by-products from food, feed, fiber, wood, and materials processing plants, cheese whey; post-consumer residues and wastes, such as fats, greases, oils, construction and demolition wood debris and other urban wood waste, municipal solid wastes and wastewater, and landfill gases. In this backdrop, the present study aims to assess the various bio energy alternatives in India through a cost benefit analysis. Specifically the study will address the cost and benefit associated with bio energy options in urban transport from economic and social perspectives; would help the policy makers to formulate the strategies in term of green energy for low carbon growth.