Maruti Suzuki India, also known as MSIL, has earmarked INR 4.5 billion (USD 54m/EUR 49.5m) for the expansion of renewable energy usage over the next three years, beginning with the launch of a pilot biogas plant that holds potential for replication.
In an announcement made on Wednesday, the automobile manufacturer revealed plans to kickstart a biogas production project at its Manesar facility. The plant is designed to produce 0.2 tonnes of biogas daily, utilizing food waste sourced from canteens and Napier grass as primary raw materials. The residual organic manure generated will be utilized in horticulture activities.
Commenting on the initiative, Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and CEO of the company, emphasized MSIL's commitment to increasing the share of sustainable and renewable energy sources across its operations. He highlighted that the endeavor aligns with Suzuki's Environment Vision 2050 and the Indian government's focus on renewable energy.
Takeuchi further elaborated that MSIL intends to leverage multiple renewable energy sources to enhance the eco-friendliness of its operations. He noted that insights gained from the pilot project will inform similar initiatives at upcoming manufacturing facilities.
During the fiscal year 2023/24, MSIL invested INR 1.2 billion in commissioning renewable energy projects, including solar power and biogas. The company successfully expanded its solar capacity to 43.2 MWp during this period and aims to add an additional 15 MWp to its Manesar plant and 20 MWp to the upcoming Kharkhoda plant over the next two years. This expansion will raise the total solar capacity to 78.2 MWp by fiscal year 2025/26.
