LPG Shortage & Biogas in India: Energy Security, Alternatives & Challenges

LPG shortages due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz amid the West Asia conflict have revived interest in biogas and alternative cooking fuels in India.

About Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

• LPG is a clean-burning, energy-efficient fossil fuel widely used for domestic cooking, heating, and industrial applications.
• Composition: It mainly consists of propane (C₃H₈) and butane (C₄H₁₀), which are highly flammable hydrocarbons.
• Production
  • Obtained as a by-product of crude oil refining and natural gas processing.
  • India produces a limited quantity domestically and relies heavily on imports.
• Applications
  • Domestic cooking fuel (major use in households).
  • Industrial heating and power generation.
  • Automotive fuel (Auto LPG).
  • Commercial uses (hotels, restaurants).

About Biogas

• Biogas is a renewable energy source produced by anaerobic decomposition of organic waste such as cattle dung, food waste, and agricultural residues.
• It is composed primarily of methane (50–75%) and carbon dioxide (25–50%).
• Features
  • Eco-friendly fuel: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and waste.
  • Decentralised production: Can be produced at household or community level.
  • Dual benefit: Provides fuel and organic manure as by-product.
  • Reduces fossil fuel dependence: Supports energy security and circular economy.

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Key Concerns Regarding LPG

• High Import Dependence: Around 65% of LPG is imported, mainly from West Asia.
• Supply Vulnerability: Geopolitical tensions (e.g., Strait of Hormuz disruptions) affect availability.
• Price Volatility: Global price fluctuations increase subsidy burden and household costs.
• Low Storage Capacity: Limited reserves (only a few days of consumption) increase risk during disruptions.

Way Forward

• Diversification of Energy Mix: Promote electric cooking, biogas, and other clean fuels.
• Expand Domestic Production & Storage: Strengthen strategic reserves and infrastructure.
• Policy Support for Alternatives: Increase subsidies and incentives for biogas and clean energy.
• Decentralised Solutions: Encourage community-based waste-to-energy systems.
• Strengthen Energy Security: Reduce dependence on imports through renewables and innovation. 

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India must diversify its cooking energy mix, strengthen domestic capacity, and promote renewable alternatives like biogas to ensure energy security and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions.

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