Ludhiana: The shortage of LPG cylinders has brought attention to the slow progress of renewable energy projects in Ludhiana, raising concerns over long-term energy security in the district, The Economic Times reported.
Officials said plans were in place to set up 57 compressed biogas (CBG) plants by next year, but work has begun on only five sites so far. The delay has largely been linked to resistance from local residents, who have raised environmental concerns.
According to the Punjab Energy Development Agency, the current situation has exposed a lack of awareness about alternative energy sources. District manager Gurinder Singh said many people are still unfamiliar with the use and benefits of biogas, with some even questioning whether it can replace LPG in household cylinders.
He explained that CBG can be used as fuel for vehicles, including trucks and tractors, and plays an important role in reducing pollution by using farm waste such as paddy straw and cattle dung.
Officials warned that heavy dependence on conventional fuels like LPG could pose risks if supply disruptions continue. They said CBG projects can help make the region more self-reliant in energy.
The projects are part of a wider waste-to-energy plan that was initially targeted for completion by 2022. However, repeated protests have delayed progress, pushing the timeline to 2027.
At present, plants are being developed in several villages, with one unit already operational. Once all 57 plants are completed, they are expected to process about 2.8 million tonnes of paddy straw each year, helping to reduce stubble burning, a major cause of air pollution in Punjab.
Officials said that despite government support and incentives, public opposition remains a key challenge. They stressed that greater awareness is needed to speed up the shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
