Turning Agri-Waste into Clean Energy: ORS Debuts Sanjeevak 2.0

Organic Recycling Systems (ORS) has commenced pilot-scale research activities for its Sanjeevak 2.0 project at the ORS Research and Innovation Centre (ORS-RIC) in Mahape, Navi Mumbai, advancing its efforts in sustainable biomass utilisation and circular economy solutions.

The project centres on a 10 kg/hour downdraft gasification system designed to convert hard biomass feedstocks into clean syngas and high-quality biochar through a controlled partial oxidation process. The downdraft gasifier configuration has been selected for its ability to minimise tar formation, while its autothermal design enables the reactor to maintain operational temperatures after ignition without the need for continuous external fuel input.

Current pilot trials are being conducted using a range of agricultural biomass residues, including tender coconut shells, brown coconut shells, cashew nut shells, and groundnut shells. The ongoing phase of the study is focused on evaluating and optimising critical operating parameters to improve charcoal yield and achieve high fixed-carbon content in the resulting biochar. The project remains in the optimisation stage, and detailed performance outcomes have not yet been disclosed.

The initiative forms part of ORS’s broader commitment to developing innovative resource recovery and waste-to-value technologies. The company has established a strong presence in the circular economy sector through its waste management and renewable energy solutions.

ORS operates India’s first municipal solid waste processing facility based on a patented anaerobic biomethanation technology at Solapur, Maharashtra. The plant converts biodegradable waste into biogas and fermented organic manure, showcasing a scalable approach to waste-to-energy generation and sustainable resource recovery.

Through projects such as Sanjeevak 2.0, the company aims to further strengthen its portfolio of clean energy and biomass valorisation technologies while supporting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.