Article to Know on biomass briquettes and pellets and Why it is Trending?

Can Eco-Friendly Biomass Fuels Truly Replace Coal in the Journey Toward Sustainability?

As the world moves towards renewable energy, industries are searching for cleaner and renewable alternatives to coal. Among the most promising substitutes are bio briquettes and pellets — environmentally friendly fuels derived from farm and forestry by-products, sawdust, and biowaste. These sustainable energy forms not only cut carbon emissions but also utilise materials that would otherwise add to environmental pollution.

With rising concerns about fossil fuel depletion and stricter emission norms, the use of biomass briquettes and bio pellets is gaining momentum across sectors such as industrial production, service industries, and energy production.

What Are Biomass Briquettes and Pellets?

Bio briquettes and pellets are renewable fuels created through densification of biomass waste such as sawdust, rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, and agricultural leftovers. The process does not use binding agents, producing compact fuel sources that burn efficiently with low ash content.

While both serve similar functions, their difference lies in shape and heating purpose:

* Briquettes are chunky blocks — rectangular or round — commonly used in industrial furnaces.
* Pellets are smaller cylinders, ideal for small combustion units and smaller industries.

This adaptability makes biomass fuels suitable for both major factories and smaller operations.

Key Benefits of Biomass over Coal

Coal burning is a leading source of greenhouse gas emissions, pollutants, and ash disposal problems. In contrast, biomass fuels offer significant benefits:

1. Carbon Neutral Energy – Biomass fuels emit CO? that was taken in during plant growth, achieving a minimal carbon impact.
2. Lower Emissions – They generate far less SO?, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants compared to coal.
3. Renewable and Locally Available – Biowaste is constantly generated, making biomass a sustainable source that also supports rural livelihoods.
4. Efficient Combustion – With stable calorific value and uniform burning, biomass briquettes and pellets ensure better efficiency.
5. Reduced Handling and Storage Costs – Their uniform shape and dry composition make them easy to store.

Are Biomass Pellets Economically Viable?

The biomass pellet price depends on factors such as raw material quality, dryness, and production capacity. While rates differ regionally, they are generally comparable to increasing coal costs.

Businesses that move to biomass fuels can experience:

* Lower energy bills over time due to better performance.
* Reduced maintenance costs as boilers face fewer mechanical issues.
* Government incentives through tax benefits and green initiatives.

For organisations focused on sustainability goals, these economic advantages make biomass an strategic investment.

Uses of Biomass Fuels in Industry

Many industries have begun incorporating biomass-based fuels into their energy systems. Common applications include:
- Textile and Paper Mills: For steam generation biomass pellets and process heating.
- Food Processing Units: As a cost-saving heat source.
- Brick Kilns and Cement Plants: For thermal energy as a coal substitute.
- Power Plants: Used for mixed fuel burning with coal to improve energy efficiency.

These use cases highlight the practicality of biomass briquettes and pellets in replacing coal across industrial landscapes.

How Biomass Fuels Support the Environment

The positive effects of biomass extend beyond emission control. Biomass utilisation enables a sustainable ecosystem by turning organic residues into energy. This mitigates open-field burning — a major cause of air pollution — while also offering farmers extra income.

Furthermore, the ash produced from biomass combustion can be biomass pellets reused as a fertiliser, creating a regenerative system.

Limitations in Widespread Biomass Use

Although biomass offers clear benefits, some obstacles persist:
- Difficulties in collecting and drying biomass feedstock.
- Boiler modification costs in old coal-based plants.
- Inconsistent supply of raw materials during harvest downtime.

However, ongoing advancements in fuel densification and government initiatives are helping tackle these issues.

What Lies Ahead for Biomass Fuels

With global focus on carbon neutrality, biomass is expected to play a central role in industrial decarbonisation. Emerging developments such as automated pellet manufacturing are improving the efficiency and availability of biomass fuels.

Countries with strong agricultural bases can benefit from this opportunity to secure energy independence while reducing waste.

Final Thoughts

The replacement of coal with biomass briquettes and pellets represents more than a technological change — it’s a step toward a eco-positive, self-sustaining, and balanced energy future. With competitive prices, abundant feedstock, and favourable energy policies, industries now have a strong opportunity to adopt greener operations. By embracing bio briquettes, we take decisive steps toward achieving environmental resilience.