India’s efforts to develop low-carbon fuels are gaining momentum, with Thermax, Germany-based C1 Green Chemicals AG and Ankur Scientific Energy Technologies Pvt. Ltd. joining hands to establish a pre-commercial facility for producing green methanol from biomass, according to Chemical Industry Digest, The Economic Times reported.
The proposed project aims to demonstrate the conversion of biomass into synthesis gas (syngas) and its subsequent processing into green methanol. The facility will help assess the technical feasibility of an integrated biomass-to-methanol production process and establish a foundation for potential commercial-scale deployment in India.
Under the partnership, C1 Green Chemicals will provide its methanol catalyst technology, Thermax will lead process engineering and development, while Ankur Scientific will contribute its expertise in biomass gasification.
The process involves converting solid biomass into syngas through gasification, which is then used as a feedstock for methanol production. The collaboration aims to integrate these technologies into a single production pathway and demonstrate their operational potential.
Thermax Chief Technology Officer Santanu Chaudhuri said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to developing sustainable energy solutions through technological innovation. He added that the pre-commercial facility would help build the technical capabilities required for a larger commercial rollout.
First technology licence for C1 Green Chemicals
The agreement also marks the first technology licence granted by C1 Green Chemicals to Thermax. C1 Green Chemicals CEO Christian Vollmann described Thermax as a suitable partner, citing its experience in engineering and developing chemical manufacturing facilities.
Vollmann said the companies intend to scale up the technology in India initially, while exploring opportunities in other markets. He also highlighted the growing interest in locally produced and decentralised biomethanol as countries seek to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Potential applications in shipping and chemicals
Biomass-based green methanol is attracting attention as a potential low-carbon alternative for both industrial applications and transportation. Methanol is already widely used as a chemical feedstock and is increasingly being considered as an alternative marine fuel, particularly as the shipping industry looks for ways to reduce emissions.
The proposed facility could help establish a domestic supply chain for renewable methanol, supporting India’s efforts to diversify its clean fuel options and reduce industrial emissions.
However, commercial viability will depend on the availability of sustainably sourced biomass, feedstock quality, conversion efficiency and production costs. The ability to ensure consistent operations and reliable biomass supplies will be critical in determining whether the technology can be scaled up for commercial production.
