The document outlines key revisions to the guidelines for the Biomass Programme under the National Bioenergy Programme (Phase-I), effective from FY 2021-22 to 2025-26. Key changes include:

  1. Simplified Documentation: Omission of requirements such as Techno-economic Feasibility Reports, high-resolution site photographs, and EIA clearances for certain approvals.
  2. Revised CFA Conditions: Updated terms for Central Financial Assistance, including pro-rata disbursement based on Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF) and mandatory IoT-based monitoring or quarterly data sharing.
  3. Exclusive CFA Eligibility: Clarification that pellet manufacturing plants using new machinery exclusively for either torrefied or non-torrefied pellets (not both) qualify for revised CFA rates.
  4. Dual Scheme Option: Applicants from high-priority regions (NCT of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and NCR districts of Rajasthan and UP) may choose between MNRE’s Biomass Scheme or CPCB’s Pelletization Scheme, with a notarized undertaking required to prevent dual claims.
  5. Performance Metrics: Stricter operational benchmarks (e.g., 80% CUF over 10 hours for full CFA) and submission of geotagged photos/videos during inspections.

These amendments aim to streamline processes, enhance accountability, and promote efficient biomass energy production while preventing duplicate subsidies. The revisions apply retroactively to all projects sanctioned under the original guidelines dated 02.11.2022.