Biomass-Based Briquettes and Pellets – An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Coal
With the rising demand for eco-friendly energy sources, bio briquettes and biomass pellets have proven to be dependable alternatives to fossil-based fuels like coal. Made from agro-residues, timber residues, and other biodegradable substances, these biofuels are not only reusable but also low-emission, helping industries cut down their carbon footprint while delivering efficient energy output. In both household and commercial applications, the shift from coal to biomass briquettes and bio pellets is increasing rapidly due to their affordability and environmental advantages.
The expanding use of biomass briquettes and pellets highlights a major transition towards circular energy systems where agricultural by-products are repurposed into renewable energy resources instead of being wasted.
Definition of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
Bio briquettes are solid blocks made from biomass residues such as wood dust, groundnut shells, rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, and other agricultural waste. These briquettes act as alternatives to conventional coal and firewood, providing similar calorific value with minimal emissions.
Biomass pellets, on the other hand, are small cylindrical forms produced by pressing finely ground biomass under intense compression. Their consistent dimensions and weight make them ideal for automated combustion systems such as boilers, heating units, and steam generators. Pellets are often favoured for residential heating and power generation due to their ease of handling.
Both briquettes and pellets are renewable because they repurpose waste biomass that would otherwise break down and emit methane — a potent greenhouse gas.
Key Benefits of Biomass Briquettes and Pellets
The advantages of using biomass briquettes and bio pellets extend across multiple aspects.
A major advantage is their low carbon footprint. When burned, they release only the CO? taken in by the plants during growth, making them a balanced fuel source. They also generate less ash compared to coal, reducing maintenance for combustion systems.
From an business 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 manageable operating expenses, especially for high-consumption units.
Biomass Pellet Pricing and Market Dynamics
The biomass pellet price is influenced by several factors such as feedstock supply, moisture content, transport distance, and energy output. Regions with ample agricultural or forestry residues generally offer more competitive prices.
Typically, pellet prices are quoted per tonne and vary among bio briquettes regions. While slight fluctuations may occur depending on demand and scale, they remain considerably lower than imported coal or petroleum coke. This pricing advantage, coupled with government incentives for renewable energy, makes biomass pellets an viable choice for industrial users.
Additionally, rising demand for eco-friendly fuels is driving innovation in pelletisation and combustion technologies, boosting efficiency and reducing fuel loss.
Uses of Bio Briquettes and Biomass Pellets
Bio briquettes and bio pellets are widely used in sectors such as steel production. 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 dense structure and consistent combustion, while pellets are suited for automated feed systems. Their low-smoke combustion ensures compliance with environmental standards.
Many manufacturers are also adopting these fuels to align with sustainability goals and emission reduction commitments under green regulations.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Switching from coal to biomass briquettes and pellets substantially 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 recycled residues, they stimulate rural development by creating new income opportunities for farmers. Local collection and processing units generate employment and promote sustainable waste management.
In the long term, widespread adoption of bio briquettes and bio pellets can play a vital role in achieving decarbonisation targets and enhancing domestic energy security.
Barriers and Prospects
Despite their many advantages, large-scale utilisation of biomass pellets and biomass briquettes faces obstacles 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, improved collection networks, and pro-renewable policies are addressing these issues. Many industries are now entering long-term contracts to secure a steady fuel supply at stable prices.
The setup of modern briquetting and pellet plants near farming zones further boosts production efficiency and minimises transport-related emissions.
Final Thoughts
Biomass briquettes and pellets are viable and sustainable substitutes for coal in both commercial and residential use. Their renewable nature, clean combustion, and cost stability make them perfect for a sustainable future. As industries increasingly seek alternatives that comply with green standards and CSR goals, the demand for biomass briquettes and biomass pellets will expand rapidly. With technological advancement and policy support, these biomass-based fuels are likely to reshape the global energy landscape by making clean heat and power available to biomass pellet price all.