Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world’s first 2G bioethanol plant and laid the foundation stone for a 360 KTPA polypropylene (PP) plant at Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) in Golaghat, Assam. These projects are aimed at promoting clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and accelerating Assam’s industrial development.
Investments and Technology
The bioethanol plant has seen an investment of Rs. 5,000 crore, while the polypropylene unit, scheduled for commissioning in 2028, will involve Rs. 7,000 crore. The ethanol facility uses Finnish Chempolis technology, and the polypropylene plant will deploy Lummus Technology.
Production and Economic Impact
The polypropylene plant will require 500,000 tonnes of bamboo annually and produce 50 TMT of ethanol, 19 TMT of furfural, and 11 TMT of acetic acid. ABEPL is exploring export opportunities for furfural and acetic acid. The bioethanol plant will also provide food-grade CO2 for the beverage industry, generate 25 MW of green electricity, and significantly support the pharma API sector.
Empowering Farmers and Local Economy
Modi highlighted that local farmers will benefit from bamboo cultivation, with the government ensuring a steady supply and establishing small bamboo chipping units. Approximately Rs. 200 crore will be spent annually in this sector, directly benefiting thousands of people in the region.
Self-Reliant Energy Vision
Emphasizing India’s historic dependence on imported crude oil and gas, Modi stated that the nation is now moving toward energy self-reliance. He highlighted that projects like these not only strengthen Assam’s energy capabilities but also contribute to national development, creating jobs and boosting local income.
Polypropylene Plant and Regional Development
The polypropylene unit is expected to reinforce ‘Make in Assam’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, boosting manufacturing and industrial growth. Modi described these projects as ushering in a new era of development for Assam, positioning the state as a hub for trade and tourism.
Event and Dignitaries
The event was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with other dignitaries. Modi extended his congratulations to all involved and reaffirmed the collective resolve to build a developed Assam and a developed India.
