The Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) is considering a new strategic crude oil reserve in Bina, Madhya Pradesh, to support inland refineries in northern India during supply emergencies.
The move aims to strengthen the country’s energy security and diversify storage locations.
Pre-Feasibility Study Underway for Bina Reserve
To evaluate the feasibility of the Bina reserve, ISPRL has engaged Engineers India Limited (EIL) for a pre-feasibility study.
The study is expected to be completed within three to four months.
Bina, along with Bikaner in Rajasthan, has emerged as a potential location for both crude oil and natural gas reserves.
Current SPR Capacity and Coastal Focus
India’s existing Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPRs) are located in Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Mangaluru, and Padur (Karnataka), with a combined storage capacity of 5.3 million tons (MT).
The second-phase SPRs, currently under development at Padur and Chandikhol (Odisha), will contribute an additional 6.5 MT, primarily benefiting coastal refineries.
Innovative Salt Cavern Facility in Bikaner
In a significant development, ISPRL is exploring India’s first-ever salt cavern SPR in Bikaner, Rajasthan, with a proposed capacity of five MT.
Salt caverns are considered highly efficient for hydrocarbon storage due to their natural insulation and structural integrity. Furthermore, ISPRL is examining the feasibility of establishing a natural gas reserve in the same region to bolster energy security further.
Expansion Plans at Mangaluru SPR
To enhance its existing storage capabilities, ISPRL has completed a detailed feasibility report (DPR) for expanding the Mangaluru SPR.
The proposed expansion includes an additional 1.5 MT capacity near the current facility.
The Mangalore Special Economic Zone Limited (MSEZL) has already acquired the land required for this.
Strengthening India’s Energy Resilience
The initiatives reflect India’s commitment to improving energy security and preparing for potential supply disruptions.
As reported by projectstoday.com, ISPRL is diversifying storage locations. It is also incorporating advanced technologies like salt caverns. These proactive steps aim to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply across the nation.
