Maize-based bioethanol: A sustainable pathway for crop diversification in Punjab

Abstract

Punjab has long been at the forefront of India’s agricultural self-sufficiency, but the dominance of the paddy-wheat cropping system has led to severe ecological challenges, including groundwater depletion and soil degradation. To ensure sustainable agriculture, crop diversification is imperative, with maize emerging as a viable alternative to paddy. Maize’s adaptability and multiple end-uses, particularly in bioethanol production, make it a key crop for India’s renewable energy strategy. The Government of India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program aims to achieve 20% ethanol blending by 202526, necessitating a significant increase in maize-based ethanol production. This study evaluates five maize hybrids for their ethanol production potential to support Punjab’s shift towards maize-based bioethanol. Hybrids were assessed for starch content, saccharification efficiency, and ethanol yield. Among them, JH21020 demonstrated the highest ethanol yield (0.45 g/g maize) and fermentation efficiency (98.95%) at 15% substrate loading. The findings highlight the importance of optimizing substrate concentrations for enhanced ethanol recovery. With ethanol production capacity in Punjab projected to rise, promoting high-starch maize hybrids and improving post-harvest technologies will be critical. This study underscores maize’s potential to drive both agricultural sustainability and biofuel advancements in Punjab, ensuring economic viability for farmers and reducing environmental stress.