The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has approved a set of guidelines to enable compressed biogas (CBG) to be supplied through natural gas pipelines and city gas networks, in a move aimed at expanding the use of green fuel in India.
The guidelines lay down a clear system for injecting CBG into natural gas pipeline (NGPL) and city gas distribution (CGD) networks, helping connect producers with end users. The regulator said the step will support project developers, gas distributors, technology providers and investors by providing a uniform approach for building and operating such systems, DD News reported.
The move is expected to improve the financial viability of CBG projects by ensuring easier access to markets, while also aiding funding and infrastructure planning. It is seen as an important step towards scaling up CBG production and integrating it into the country’s energy mix.
PNGRB said the guidelines were finalised after discussions with industry stakeholders. A technical committee with representatives from CBG producers, pipeline operators and gas distribution companies worked on issues related to operations, safety and technical requirements. Public feedback was also invited before the framework was finalised.
The guidelines cover key aspects such as design standards, gas quality requirements, installation processes, and day-to-day operations and maintenance. They also include safety measures like monitoring systems and odour control.
Standard designs for CBG injection have been included to ensure consistency across projects and ease implementation across networks.
The regulator said integrating CBG into the gas grid will increase the availability of locally produced green fuel, reduce reliance on imported liquefied natural gas, and support emission reduction goals. It will also encourage the use of farm residue, cattle waste and municipal waste for energy production.
The initiative is expected to benefit farmers through additional income, promote better use of waste, reduce crop burning and create jobs in rural areas, while strengthening a safe and sustainable CBG sector.
