<p>The study aimed to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) by employing carbon cloth anodes modified with ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) for the treatment of distillery wastewater. Two double-chambered MFCs were developed: MFC-1 utilized standard carbon cloth, whereas MFC-2 featured carbon cloth anodes treated with Fe₂O₃/H₂O₂. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed the presence of oxygen-rich functional groups on the modified carbon cloth, which facilitated the attachment of exoelectrogenic bacteria. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed a rougher surface on the modified carbon cloth, thereby increasing the area available for microbial colonization. MFC-2 achieved a higher maximum open-circuit voltage of 0.811&#xa0;V, compared to 0.454&#xa0;V for MFC-1. Polarization curves demonstrated peak power densities of 44.42 mW/m² for MFC-1 and 64.40 mW/m² for MFC-2. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicated a smaller Nyquist semicircle for MFC-2, suggesting reduced charge transfer resistance. SEM analysis of the biofilm on the anodes confirmed improved microbial adhesion on the modified carbon cloth. The research highlights the effectiveness of Fe₂O₃/H₂O₂-modified carbon cloth anodes in boosting the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for distillery wastewater treatment. This finding underscores the critical role of electrode surface modifications in enhancing microbial attachment and facilitating efficient electron transfer.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>