Biomass-Based Briquettes and Pellets – An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Coal
With the rising demand for greener energy sources, biomass briquettes and pellets have emerged as effective alternatives to traditional fuels like coal. Produced from agricultural residues, 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 domestic and industrial applications, the shift from coal to biomass briquettes and bio pellets is increasing rapidly due to their affordability and environmental advantages.
The rising use of biomass briquettes and pellets highlights a significant transition towards circular energy systems where agricultural by-products are repurposed into renewable energy resources instead of being dumped.
What Are Biomass Briquettes and Pellets?
Biomass briquettes are densified cylinders made from biomass residues such as sawdust, groundnut shells, rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, and other biomass matter. These briquettes act as alternatives to conventional coal and firewood, delivering similar calorific value with lower emissions.
Biomass pellets, on the other hand, are small cylindrical forms created by pressing finely ground biomass under intense compression. Their uniform size and density 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 ease of handling.
Both briquettes and pellets are renewable because they make use of waste biomass that would otherwise rot and emit methane — a high-impact greenhouse gas.
Advantages of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
The advantages of using biomass briquettes and biomass pellets span economic, environmental, and operational aspects.
A major advantage is their reduced carbon footprint. When used as fuel, they release only the CO? taken in by the plants during growth, making them a sustainable fuel source. They also generate less ash compared to coal, lowering maintenance for combustion systems.
From an economic standpoint, industries switching to briquettes and pellets can save fuel costs. The consistency of biomass pellet price compared to the volatile coal market helps maintain steady operating expenses, especially for energy-intensive units.
Understanding Biomass Pellet Price and Market Trends
The biomass pellet price depends by several factors such as feedstock supply, moisture content, transport distance, and energy output. Regions with abundant agricultural or forestry residues generally offer more competitive prices.
Typically, pellet prices are calculated per tonne and differ among suppliers. While 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 innovation in pelletisation and combustion technologies, improving efficiency and reducing fuel loss.
Uses of Bio Briquettes and Biomass Pellets
Bio briquettes and bio pellets are widely used in sectors such as food processing. Existing coal-fired boilers can often be adapted 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 suited for automated feed systems. Their low-smoke combustion ensures compliance 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 over a tonne of CO? compared to coal use.
Moreover, since these biofuels are produced from biomass briquettes and pellets 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 irregular feedstock supply. Moisture management during production and transport remains essential for fuel efficiency.
However, rising investments bio briquettes in pelletisation technology, expanded collection networks, and pro-renewable policies are addressing these issues. Many industries are now signing long-term contracts to secure a consistent fuel supply at fixed prices.
The installation of advanced briquetting and pellet plants near agricultural regions further enhances production efficiency and reduces transport-related emissions.
Summary
Bio briquettes and pellets are practical and clean substitutes for coal in both industrial and residential use. Their renewable nature, low emissions, and economic viability 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 policy support, these renewable fuels are poised to transform the global energy landscape by making sustainable heat and power accessible to all.