Biomass Briquettes and Pellets – A Green Alternative to Coal
With the growing demand for eco-friendly energy sources, biomass-based briquettes and pellets have established themselves as viable alternatives to non-renewable fuels like coal. Created from organic agricultural waste, wood by-products, and other natural materials, these biofuels are not only reusable but also low-emission, helping industries minimise their carbon footprint while ensuring efficient energy output. In both household and commercial applications, the shift from coal to bio briquettes and biomass pellets is gaining traction due to their affordability and environmental advantages.
The expanding use of biomass briquettes and pellets highlights a major transition towards circular energy systems where agricultural by-products are converted into renewable energy resources instead of being wasted.
Definition of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
Bio briquettes are solid blocks made from biomass residues such as wood dust, groundnut shells, rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, and other agricultural waste. These briquettes act as alternatives to conventional coal and firewood, providing similar calorific value with minimal emissions.
Biomass pellets, on the other hand, are small cylindrical forms produced by pressing finely ground biomass under intense compression. Their consistent dimensions and weight make them ideal for automated combustion systems such as boilers, gasifiers, and steam generators. Pellets are often chosen for domestic heating and power generation due to their clean combustion.
Both briquettes and pellets are eco-friendly because they utilise waste biomass that would otherwise break down and emit methane — a strong greenhouse gas.
Major Benefits of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
The advantages of using bio briquettes and biomass pellets cover various aspects.
A major advantage is their reduced carbon footprint. When combusted, they release only the CO? captured by the plants during growth, making them a carbon-neutral fuel source. They also produce minimal ash compared to coal, lowering maintenance for equipment.
From an economic standpoint, industries switching to briquettes and pellets can save fuel costs. The predictability of bio pellet pricing compared to the fluctuating coal market helps maintain steady operating expenses, especially for energy-intensive units.
Market Insights on Biomass Pellet Price
The bio pellet price depends by several factors such as raw material availability, moisture content, logistics cost, and energy output. Regions with abundant agricultural or forestry residues generally offer lower prices.
Typically, pellet prices are calculated per tonne and vary among suppliers. While biomass pellets minor fluctuations may occur depending on demand and scale, they remain more economical than imported coal or petroleum coke. This cost benefit, coupled with government incentives for renewable energy, makes biomass pellets an appealing choice for industrial users.
Additionally, rising demand for renewable fuels is driving technological development in pelletisation and combustion technologies, enhancing efficiency and reducing fuel loss.
Commercial Applications of Bio Briquettes and Biomass Pellets
Bio briquettes and biomass pellets are widely used in sectors such as textile dyeing. Existing traditional boilers can often be modified to run on biomass fuels, reducing conversion costs.
In industrial heating systems, briquettes are preferred for their high bulk density and consistent combustion, while pellets are ideal for controlled feed systems. Their low-smoke combustion ensures compliance with environmental standards.
Many manufacturers are also adopting these fuels to align with sustainability goals and emission reduction commitments under green regulations.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Switching from coal to biomass briquettes and pellets substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Studies show that one tonne of biomass briquettes can offset over a tonne of CO? compared to coal use.
Moreover, since these biofuels are produced from renewable residues, they stimulate rural development by creating new income opportunities for farmers. Regional collection and processing units generate employment and promote sustainable waste management.
In the long term, widespread adoption of biomass briquettes and biomass pellets can be instrumental in achieving net-zero goals and enhancing energy independence.
Limitations and Growth Potential
Despite their many advantages, large-scale utilisation of bio pellets and bio briquettes faces issues such as supply chain gaps, storage limitations, and irregular feedstock supply. Moisture management during production and transport remains essential for fuel efficiency.
However, rising investments in pelletisation technology, expanded collection networks, and pro-renewable policies are mitigating these issues. Many industries are now entering long-term contracts to secure a reliable fuel supply at fixed prices.
The installation of modern briquetting and pellet plants near agricultural regions further boosts production efficiency and cuts transport-related emissions.
Summary
Biomass briquettes and pellets are practical and sustainable substitutes for coal in both industrial and residential use. Their renewable nature, clean combustion, and economic viability bio briquettes make them ideal for a low-carbon future. As industries increasingly seek alternatives that comply with green standards and CSR goals, the demand for bio briquettes and bio pellets will continue to grow. With technological advancement and government backing, these renewable fuels are set to redefine the global energy landscape by making clean heat and power available to all.