New Delhi: The State Government is interested in implementing a technology to produce biofuels from algae. If it is scientifically and economically feasible, the project will go ahead, said Finance Minister KN Balagopal said.
Mathrubhumi had reported yesterday on a project to produce biodiesel from algae in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. Vishal Prasad Gupta, an engineer who successfully implemented the project in Ranchi, had pointed out that it would be profitable even in Kerala, which has many bodies of water and favorable climates. Vishal said the Kerala government had contacted him to find out more about the project and invited him to present the issue.
Minister Balagopal said that it was considered scientifically feasible to produce fuel from algae. But it remains to be seen how economically viable it will be. The problem is that biofuels are now available in many places, but they are more expensive. At the same time, the minister said he was interested in the idea of generating fuel from algae.
“This is a project that should be viewed with hope and care,” said Dr. Krishna, professor of science and engineering at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. PV Arvind pointed out. Biofuel production from algae has started in many countries. He said he knew that the project in Spain to produce bio-CNG from microalgae (a type of algae) was a success. Arvind said.
The biodiesel pump was commissioned in Ranchi last December. It sells for Rs 10 less per liter than regular diesel. It is environmentally friendly and can be used as a by-product in the production of biodiesel. Atmospheric humidity, temperature, availability of sunlight and bodies of water are favorable factors for algae growth in Kerala.
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