Biomass-Based Briquettes and Pellets – An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Coal
With the growing demand for eco-friendly energy sources, biomass-based briquettes and pellets have proven to be dependable alternatives to fossil-based fuels like coal. Made from agro-residues, timber residues, and other biodegradable substances, these biofuels are not only sustainable but also environmentally balanced, helping industries minimise their carbon footprint while ensuring efficient energy output. In both household and industrial applications, the shift from coal to bio briquettes and biomass pellets is on the rise due to their economic benefits and green benefits.
The increasing use of bio briquettes and pellets highlights a significant transition towards sustainable energy cycles where farm residues are transformed into green energy resources instead of being discarded.
What Are Biomass Briquettes and Pellets?
Biomass briquettes are compressed blocks made from organic materials such as wood dust, peanut shells, paddy husk, bagasse, and other agricultural waste. These briquettes replace traditional coal and firewood, offering equivalent calorific value with reduced emissions.
Bio pellets, on the other hand, are compact cylindrical forms produced by compressing finely ground biomass under high pressure. Their consistent dimensions and weight make them ideal for mechanised combustion systems such as furnaces, gasifiers, and industrial furnaces. Pellets are often preferred for domestic heating and energy production due to their steady performance.
Both briquettes and pellets are renewable because they repurpose waste biomass that would otherwise break down and emit methane — a potent greenhouse gas.
Key Benefits of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
The advantages of using bio briquettes and bio pellets extend across multiple aspects.
A major advantage is their low carbon footprint. When burned, they release only the CO? taken in by the plants during growth, making them a balanced fuel source. They also generate less ash compared to coal, reducing maintenance for combustion systems.
From an business standpoint, industries switching to briquettes and pellets can cut fuel costs. The stability of biomass pellet price compared to the unpredictable coal market helps maintain manageable operating expenses, especially for high-consumption units.
Biomass Pellet Pricing and Market Dynamics
The biomass pellet price is influenced by several factors such as feedstock supply, moisture content, transport distance, and energy output. Regions with ample agricultural or forestry residues generally offer more competitive prices.
Typically, pellet prices are quoted per tonne and vary among regions. While small fluctuations may occur depending on demand and scale, they remain significantly cheaper than imported coal or petroleum coke. This cost benefit, coupled with policy support for renewable energy, makes biomass pellets an promising choice for industrial users.
Additionally, rising demand for sustainable fuels is driving advancements in pelletisation and combustion technologies, boosting efficiency and reducing fuel loss.
Commercial Applications of Bio Briquettes and Biomass Pellets
Biomass 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 thermal energy systems, briquettes are preferred for their high bulk density and consistent combustion, while pellets are perfect for mechanical feed systems. Their clean combustion ensures adherence with environmental standards.
Many SMEs are also adopting these fuels to support sustainability goals and emission reduction commitments under renewable energy policies.
Environmental Advantages
Switching from coal to bio briquettes and pellets significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Studies show that one tonne of biomass briquettes can save biomass briquettes and pellets over a tonne of CO? compared to coal use.
Moreover, since these biofuels are produced from recycled 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 biomass pellets and bio briquettes faces issues such as supply chain gaps, weather sensitivity, and biomass pellet price irregular feedstock supply. Moisture management during production and transport remains essential for fuel efficiency.
However, rising investments in pelletisation technology, expanded collection networks, and supportive policies are addressing these issues. Many industries are now signing long-term contracts to secure a reliable fuel supply at fixed prices.
The setup of modern briquetting and pellet plants near agricultural regions further enhances production efficiency and reduces transport-related emissions.
Conclusion
Bio briquettes and pellets are practical and clean substitutes for coal in both industrial and domestic use. Their sustainable nature, low emissions, and economic viability make them ideal for a low-carbon future. As industries increasingly embrace alternatives that comply with environmental laws and corporate sustainability targets, the demand for bio briquettes and bio pellets will rise steadily. With technological advancement and policy support, these biomass-based fuels are poised to transform the global energy landscape by making sustainable heat and power accessible to all.