Husk Based Power Plant

ANAND ABHISHEK

IIT KANPUR

Inspiration Behind The Work

When we hear the word innovation, we often think of new technologies or silver bullet solutions like hydrogen fuel cells or a cure for cancer. One area where this is desperately needed is access to electricity. In the age of the iPad, its easy to forget that roughly a quarter of the worlds population still lack electricity. This isnt just an inconvenience; it takes a severe toll on economic life, education and health. Its estimated that two million people die prematurely each year as a result of pulmonary diseases caused by the indoor burning of fuels for cooking and light. Source :- World Health Organization

Business Model

Provide end-to-end renewable energy solutions by installing 25-kW to 100-kW mini power plants and deliver electricity to villages on a pay-for-use basis. This technology cost-effectively converts agricultural residue (rice husk, mustard stems, corn cobs, certain grasses) into electricity. A typical plant can serve two to four villages depending on size and population. The plant will employs local villagers who will be trained to conduct plant operations.

Electricity can be distributed through micro-grids made from bamboo or other sustainable materials instead of concrete.
Bio-char is a waste product that can be used to make incense sticks. To enhance livelihoods in local communities ,training will be given to local electricians to manufacture simple electronic products such as pre-paid meters or innovative products such as small refrigeration devices for rural microenterprises.

Typical Overview of Plant

Budget

Total Landed Cost of Installation is about Rs 60000 per kW. Landed cost includes Equipment cost, basic construction and cost of wiring a small village. Operational Cost of the plant is about Rs 7 kWh. One unit can generate 32 kilowatts of electricity from 50 kilograms of husks per hour.

The rice husks used to fuel the plant are available from local rice mills for 1 Rs/Kg.
The cost of the service will be cheaper than the use of Kerosene. Expected lifetime of plant is 12 years. Plant will become profitable after 4 years.

Market Size

Since the most of the villages do no have electricity connection. Husk based Power system will be rapidly capture the market. The cost of the electricity is cheaper than the Kerosene and Diesel. It provides clean and reliable source of energy. It also provides training and employment to local residents.

Keeping above benefits this idea will be huge success and Its demand will rapidly grow.

Team Formation

Organizational structure will be simple. Planning to start this along with my some friends so that I can have sufficient fund to start the power plant. At most three level hierarchy from top to bottom since being small firm.

Local villagers will be trained so that they can be employed in the firm.
Some part of the profit will be used for social welfare and some for the R&D. Each employee will be given remuneration on the basis of their work. Best performer will be given extra incentives.

Social Impact

Thank You