What is Abhilasha Biofuels (ABF)?

Why in News?

The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has extended support to a company for establishing a commercial-scale facility to manufacture Second-Generation (2G) Diesel-Equivalent Biofuel. 

• The project is titled “Manufacturing of 2nd Generation Diesel Equivalent Biofuel.”
• It aims to set up a greenfield facility for producing Abhilasha Biofuels (ABF), an indigenous renewable diesel and naphtha alternative.
• The initiative seeks to utilize agricultural residues and agro-processing waste to produce clean fuels, supporting India’s energy transition and waste-to-wealth objectives.

What is Abhilasha Biofuels (ABF)?

• ABF is a next-generation renewable fuel developed using indigenous Indian technology.
• It is a “drop-in fuel,” meaning it can directly replace conventional diesel without requiring any changes to engines, fuel systems, storage facilities and distribution infrastructure.
• It offers a practical solution for reducing emissions from transportation and industrial sectors.

Technology Used

• The fuel is produced through advanced thermo-chemical conversion processes.
• Agricultural residues and agro-industrial waste are converted into high-quality renewable diesel and naphtha.
• The technology promotes efficient utilization of biomass that would otherwise be burnt or discarded.

What are Second-Generation (2G) Biofuels?

• Second-Generation (2G) biofuels are advanced biofuels produced from non-food biomass rather than food crops.
• Feedstocks include rice straw, corn stover, sugarcane residues, forestry waste, agro-industrial residues, dedicated energy crops.

Advantages of 2G Biofuels

• Do not compete with food production.
• Reduce stubble burning and associated air pollution.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
• Promote circular economy and waste-to-wealth initiatives.
• Enhance energy security by reducing dependence on imported crude oil.

Source: PIB