Some Mysoreans bank on biogas made out of waste

MYSORE: At a time when LPG consumers are awaiting anxiously for the government’s decision on the cap on subsidized LPG cylinders, a bunch of Mysoreans seems to be least bothered about the issue, thanks to alternative energy. They are generating biogas at their homes using organic waste generated at their kitchens. Now, they consume only five-six cylinders a year -- as against the earlier 12. About seven individuals are generating a minimum of 250-300 gram of biogas daily, which they use for cooking. NIE-Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies director S Shamsundar claims that he, being a promoter of renewable energy, set up biogas plant at his home.

“Earlier, biogas was generated using only cow dung. Knowing that organic waste can also be converted into energy, I searched for individuals/ organizations who have developed it. Then I came across Appropriate Rural Technology Institute (Pune) which met my expectations.” “Our first experiment at NIE institute was successful. We are still generating biogas at NIE, which is being used in canteen. Later, I installed one-cubic-metre biogas plant at my home, after which my friends followed suit. Today, we can find a dozen biogas plants, including seven individual ones, in the city. I have helped institutions like Administrative Training Institute, KR Hospital, State Pollution Control Board and Labland Biotech Pvt Ltd,” Shamsundar said, adding: “I now consume one LPG cylinder once in two-and-half to three months, as against the earlier 10–12 cylinders.”

One-cubic-metre biogas unit comprises 1,000-litre digester, 750-kg gas holder and an inlet. Organic waste like rotten fruits, vegetables and leftovers are used (after crushing the peels) to generate biogas. Except chemicals, metal, plastic and large quantities of citric things, one can use all other waste. The tank needs to be filled with a minimum of 2-3kg of waste or more, with equal proportion of water. Slurry can be used as manure, or left to the drain. It may cost nearly Rs 20,000 to set up one-cubic-metre plant.Mysore City Corporation, in order to promote biogas generation using organic waste, is meeting businesspersons, organizations and individuals, Shamasundar said.