India's path to fossil fuel freedom: renewables, biofuels, and green hydrogen explained

This article from The Sunday Guardian lays out a broad vision for India to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels by scaling up renewable energy, biofuels, green hydrogen, and alternative industrial feedstocks. It covers energy storage technologies like solid-state batteries and compressed air storage, as well as bio-based replacements for plastics, solvents, and fertilizers. The piece argues that with 17.7% of the world's population, India should lead the global transition to sustainable energy and materials. Key points include India's 20% ethanol blending milestone, the push for compressed biogas, and the development of thorium-based nuclear energy. The article also highlights biomanufacturing advances such as engineered microorganisms that convert agricultural waste into chemicals and plastics. While the scope is ambitious, the piece lacks specific timelines or cost comparisons, making it more of a policy wishlist than a detailed roadmap.