Prefabricated plants with 25-year warranty introduced
Shahin Bepari Lambe
Panaji: The Directorate of Agriculture plans to install nearly 200 biogas plants across the state this year as part of an expanded renewable energy initiative backed by an enhanced subsidy scheme and the introduction of prefabricated technology-driven units.
Deputy Director of Agriculture Shivdas Gaonkar said biogas technology has existed in Goa for nearly 30 years, though the system has undergone gradual changes over time.
“After a gap of many years, around 40 biogas plants were set up in Sattari last year. This year we are going ahead with nearly 200 more biogas plants,” Gaonkar said.
He said prefabricated biogas plants are now being used as they are easier to install and reduce the chances of leakage.
The new systems come with a 25-year warranty. “Earlier, biogas plants required brick construction work,” he said, adding that individual farmers and gaushalas are eligible for the subsidy.
Gaonkar said farmers constructing or installing biogas plants would receive a 90 per cent subsidy against the estimated standard cost of construction and installation.
Officials said the subsidy structure now includes excavation charges, transportation costs and Goods and Services Tax (GST) within the standard cost for both prefabricated and constructed plants.
The government has also introduced incentives for promoters involved in installations. Agriculture assistants, field assistants and Krishi Mitras promoting constructed biogas plants will receive Rs 1,500 per unit.
“The size of the plant sanctioned would depend on the number of cattle owned by the beneficiary to ensure adequate availability of organic waste and cow dung for gas production,” said Gaonkar.
He added that assistance amounting to 20% of the standard cost would be provided after six years for maintenance and sustainability of the units. Authorities also said an individual beneficiary can receive a maximum of three units during their lifetime.
