Biomass-Based Briquettes and Pellets – An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Coal
With the rising demand for cleaner energy sources, biomass-based briquettes and pellets have proven to be effective alternatives to traditional fuels like coal. Created from agro-residues, wood waste, and other natural materials, these biofuels are not only sustainable but also carbon-neutral, helping industries cut down their carbon footprint while ensuring efficient energy output. In both domestic and commercial applications, the shift from coal to bio briquettes and bio pellets is increasing rapidly due to their cost-effectiveness and green benefits.
The rising use of bio briquettes and pellets highlights a major transition towards closed-loop bioenergy systems where farm residues are transformed into clean energy resources instead of being discarded.
Definition of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
Biomass briquettes are compressed blocks made from biomass residues such as sawdust, peanut shells, rice husk, bagasse, and other agricultural waste. These briquettes act as alternatives to traditional coal and firewood, providing comparable calorific value with reduced emissions.
Biomass pellets, on the other hand, are compact cylindrical forms created by densifying finely ground biomass under intense compression. Their uniform size and density make them ideal for mechanised combustion systems such as boilers, heating units, and industrial furnaces. Pellets are often favoured for domestic heating and power generation due to their steady performance.
Both briquettes and pellets are renewable because they make use of waste biomass that would otherwise break down and emit methane — a high-impact greenhouse gas.
Major Benefits of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
The advantages of using bio briquettes and bio pellets span multiple aspects.
A major advantage is their reduced carbon footprint. When burned, they release only the CO? taken in by the plants during growth, making them a carbon-neutral fuel source. They also generate less ash compared to coal, reducing maintenance for combustion systems.
From an economic standpoint, industries switching to briquettes and pellets can cut fuel costs. The stability of biomass pellet price compared to the unpredictable coal market helps maintain steady operating expenses, especially for manufacturing units.
Understanding Biomass Pellet Price and Market Trends
The bio pellet price is influenced by several factors such as raw material availability, dryness level, logistics cost, and calorific value. Regions with rich agricultural or forestry residues generally offer lower prices.
Typically, pellet prices are biomass pellet price calculated per tonne and vary among suppliers. While minor fluctuations may occur depending on demand and scale, they remain considerably lower than imported coal or petroleum coke. This cost benefit, coupled with government incentives for renewable energy, makes biomass pellets an promising choice for industrial users.
Additionally, rising demand for renewable fuels is driving innovation in pelletisation and combustion technologies, enhancing efficiency and reducing fuel loss.
Industrial Applications of Bio Briquettes and Biomass Pellets
Bio briquettes and biomass pellets are widely used in sectors such as cement manufacturing. Existing traditional boilers can often be adapted to run on biomass fuels, reducing conversion costs.
In industrial heating systems, briquettes are preferred for their dense structure and consistent combustion, while pellets are ideal for mechanical feed systems. Their low-smoke combustion ensures compliance with environmental standards.
Many small and medium industries biomass pellets are also adopting these fuels to support sustainability goals and emission reduction commitments under renewable energy policies.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Switching from coal to bio briquettes and pellets substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Studies show that one tonne of biomass briquettes can offset over a tonne of CO? compared to coal use.
Moreover, since these biofuels are produced from renewable residues, they stimulate rural development by creating new income opportunities for farmers. Regional collection and processing units create employment and promote sustainable waste management.
In the long term, widespread adoption of biomass briquettes and bio pellets can contribute in achieving decarbonisation targets and enhancing domestic energy security.
Limitations and Growth Potential
Despite their many advantages, large-scale utilisation of bio pellets and bio briquettes faces challenges such as supply chain gaps, storage limitations, and seasonal raw material shortages. Moisture management during production and transport remains critical for fuel efficiency.
However, rising investments in pelletisation technology, enhanced collection networks, and supportive policies are reducing these issues. Many industries are now signing long-term contracts to secure a consistent fuel supply at stable prices.
The installation of modern briquetting and pellet plants near agricultural regions further improves production efficiency and reduces transport-related emissions.
Final Thoughts
Bio briquettes and pellets are viable and clean substitutes for coal in both commercial and residential use. Their sustainable nature, clean combustion, and economic viability make them suitable for a low-carbon future. As industries increasingly adopt alternatives that comply with environmental laws and CSR goals, the demand for bio briquettes and biomass pellets will rise steadily. With technological advancement and government backing, these renewable fuels are likely to redefine the global energy landscape by making sustainable heat and power available to all.