Intertek Group plc (Intertek), provider of Total Quality Assurance services worldwide, acquired the assets of a state-of-the-art solar PV laboratory in Ahmedabad from Mitsui Chemicals India. This strategic move strengthens Intertek’s footprint in India’s fast-growing renewable energy sector.

Rising Demand for Solar Quality Assurance in India

As India accelerates its clean energy transition, the demand for reliable and independent quality assurance services is increasing rapidly. The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power capacity by 2030, including 280 GW from solar energy. Against this backdrop, Intertek’s latest acquisition positions the company to support the expanding solar ecosystem with advanced testing and certification services.

Advanced Testing Services with Global Accreditations

The newly acquired solar PV laboratory will offer comprehensive testing services for solar installations, materials, and components. Notably, the facility is accredited under ISO 17025 standards and provides certifications aligned with BIS and the IECEE CB Scheme. As a result, the lab will enable Indian solar manufacturers to enhance product quality while helping international companies gain faster and more reliable access to global markets through harmonised testing protocols.

Strengthening Industry Support and Market Access

Furthermore, the facility will play a critical role in improving efficiency across the solar value chain. By offering accurate and standardised testing, it will reduce time-to-market and support compliance with global quality benchmarks. The development is particularly significant for companies aiming to scale operations in India or expand their presence in international markets.

Strategic Expansion in Renewable Energy Assurance

Intertek highlighted that the acquisition complements its risk-based Quality Assurance solutions for the solar PV sector. In addition, it reinforces the company’s leadership in renewable energy assurance while expanding its presence in western India.

The new lab also builds on the capabilities of Intertek CEA, which offers end-to-end solutions for the solar industry. These include advanced services such as aerial drone inspections and solar plant performance assessments for manufacturers, developers, and other stakeholders.

Driving India’s Solar Growth

As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, the acquisition underscores Intertek’s commitment to supporting India’s renewable energy ambitions. By enhancing testing infrastructure and quality assurance capabilities, the company is well-positioned to contribute to the country’s rapidly evolving solar energy landscape.

The Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency released the draft Bihar Green Hydrogen Policy 2026, signalling a strong push toward building a green hydrogen ecosystem in the state. Through this policy, Bihar aims to accelerate the production of green hydrogen and green ammonia while creating a robust market and manufacturing base.

Focus on Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Ecosystem

The policy actively promotes the development of green hydrogen and green ammonia production facilities. In addition, it seeks to expand electrolyser manufacturing capacity and strengthen demand aggregation across industries. By doing so, the state intends to create a favourable and well-integrated ecosystem that supports the long-term vision of establishing a green hydrogen-based economy.

Clear Targets for Capacity and Investment

The policy outlines a five-year implementation roadmap with defined production and infrastructure targets. Bihar plans to achieve a production capacity of 0.10 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA) of green hydrogen and green ammonia by 2031.

To meet this goal, the state will simultaneously develop around 1 GW of electrolyser capacity and 2.5 GW of renewable energy capacity dedicated to these projects. Moreover, the policy aims to attract investments of nearly ₹160 billion, thereby positioning Bihar as an emerging hub for clean energy investments.

Ease of Doing Business and Faster Approvals

To further strengthen investor confidence, the government of Bihar will introduce a single-window clearance system. The mechanism will simplify approvals for both new and existing green hydrogen projects. Additionally, authorities will provide fast-track clearances for critical components such as open access, energy storage, and grid integration. As a result, developers can expect smoother project execution and reduced timelines.

A Step Toward Energy Transition

Overall, the draft policy reflects Bihar’s proactive approach toward energy transition and industrial sustainability. As reported by renewablewatch.in, by combining policy support, infrastructure development, and investor-friendly measures, the state is laying the groundwork for a competitive and scalable green hydrogen economy.

V Srinivas, Chief Secretary of Rajasthan, urged officials to accelerate the finalisation of a tripartite agreement to enable seamless industrial growth in the Rajasthan Petro Zone (RPZ) at Balotra. The move comes as the state prepares for the commissioning of a major refinery project that is expected to transform the region’s industrial landscape.

Tripartite Agreement to Ensure Feedstock Supply

The proposed agreement will bring together HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited (HRRL), the state government, and downstream industries. Its primary objective is to ensure an uninterrupted supply of feedstock from the upcoming refinery to industrial units in the petro zone.

Srinivas stressed that a well-coordinated ecosystem linking the refinery with downstream sectors is critical. Such integration will not only improve operational efficiency but also maximise economic returns across industries.

RPZ to Anchor Downstream Industrial Growth

The Rajasthan Petro Zone, being developed by Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation near the refinery site, is strategically designed to promote the utilisation of refinery by-products and feedstock. As a result, industries such as plastics, chemicals, and allied manufacturing sectors are expected to benefit significantly.

Officials confirmed that a draft of the tripartite agreement is already in place. This follows directives from the state leadership to establish robust supply and utilisation mechanisms ahead of the refinery’s launch.

Preparations Intensify Ahead of Inauguration

At the same time, the Chief Secretary has directed departments to complete all procedural formalities before the planned inauguration by Narendra Modi on April 21. This milestone is expected to mark a significant boost for regional industrial development and attract fresh investments.

HRRL Refinery Set to Transform the Region

The refinery-cum-petrochemical complex at Pachpadra, with a capacity of nine MMTPA, is a joint venture between the Rajasthan government and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited. Operated by HRRL, the project is poised to become a key driver of economic growth, creating new opportunities across the petrochemical value chain. As reported by projectstoday.ai, with the tripartite pact moving toward finalisation, Rajasthan is positioning itself to fully capitalise on the refinery’s potential and strengthen its industrial ecosystem.

Aurobindo Pharma’s subsidiary, TheraNym Biologics, is strengthening its collaboration with MSD by announcing a major expansion in biologics manufacturing. The company plans to invest between $150 million and $175 million to establish a new greenfield facility, marking a significant step in its global biologics strategy.

Greenfield Facility to Boost Manufacturing Capacity

As part of the expansion, TheraNym Biologics will build a 60,000-litre mammalian bioreactor facility (Unit 2). The development builds on the agreement signed in May 2024 and is aimed at significantly enhancing large-scale biologics production capacity. The new facility will be equipped with advanced downstream purification systems, enabling the efficient production of high-quality biologic drug substances for both domestic and international markets.

Strategic Investment Strengthens Contract Manufacturing Role

To support the initiative, TheraNym Biologics will invest approximately $150–$175 million in the new unit. Under the agreement, the company will not only construct and operate the facility but also manufacture and supply biologic products to MSD. As a result, the move significantly strengthens Aurobindo’s position as a contract manufacturing organization (CMO) in the fast-growing biologics segment.

Meeting Rising Global Demand for Biologics

The expansion comes at a time when global demand for large-scale mammalian cell culture capacity is increasing rapidly. Therefore, this investment enables Aurobindo Pharma to capture emerging opportunities in biologics manufacturing while ensuring scalability and operational efficiency. In addition, the facility will enhance supply capabilities for global markets, positioning the company as a reliable partner for high-volume biologics production.

Reinforcing Long-Term Partnership with MSD

By deepening its collaboration with MSD, Aurobindo Pharma continues to strengthen its long-term strategic relationship with a leading global pharmaceutical company. As reported by indianpharmapost.com, the expansion reflects Aurobindo’s focused push into biologics, combining advanced manufacturing capabilities, strategic investments, and global partnerships to drive future growth in the biopharma sector.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has enhanced the allocation of C3 (propane) and C4 (butanes/butenes) streams to 1,000 tons per day (TPD) for critical sectors such as pharmaceuticals, packaging, and polymers. This move is aimed at strengthening domestic supply chains and supporting downstream chemical industries.

Policy Framework to Ensure Feedstock Availability

Earlier, on April 1, the government introduced a scheme mandating refining companies, including petrochemical complexes, to allocate minimum quantities of C3 and C4 streams to priority sectors. These include departments such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and petrochemicals, and Food and public distribution.

Subsequently, the Centre for High Technology determines allocations based on refinery sources and sectoral demand. Initially, the government allocated 800 TPD on April 8; however, it has now increased the allocation by 25% to 1,000 TPD to meet rising industry requirements.

Inter-Ministerial Coordination Strengthens Supply

To further streamline supply, the government established an inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG). This body ensures the consistent availability of petrochemical feedstock for the domestic market.

Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in MoPNG, stated that based on inputs from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, the enhanced allocation from the LPG pool has been implemented for pharma and chemical sector companies. Since April 9, 2026, around 1,800 tons of propylene have already been supplied, indicating strong demand and effective implementation of the policy.

Government Ensures Uninterrupted Domestic Fuel Supply

Despite ongoing global geopolitical challenges, the government has maintained 100% supply of domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG (transport). This has helped prevent disruptions in essential energy services across the country. In addition, the supply of 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders for migrant workers has been doubled, based on consumption trends observed in early March 2026. Importantly, no stockouts or “dry-outs” have been reported at LPG distributorships.

Commercial LPG Supply Shows Strong Recovery

The government has also taken steps to stabilize commercial LPG supply. Currently, allocation levels have reached around 70% of pre-crisis volumes, including 10% linked to piped natural gas (PNG) reforms. Since March 23, over 14.6 lakh 5-kg FTL cylinders have been sold. Furthermore, public sector oil marketing companies have conducted more than 5,000 awareness campaigns since April 3, resulting in the sale of over 57,800 units.

Between March 14 and now, approximately 1,34,226 tonnes of commercial LPG—equivalent to over 70.64 lakh 19-kg cylinders—have been distributed. This includes more than 8,000 tonnes of auto LPG. Notably, average daily auto LPG sales in April 2026 (up to April 14) have risen to 282 TPD, compared to 177 TPD in February, reflecting increased demand.

PNG Adoption Accelerates Across India

Meanwhile, the adoption of piped natural gas (PNG) continues to grow rapidly. Since March, about 4.5 lakh new PNG connections have been activated, while another 5 lakh consumers have registered for connections. At the same time, over 34,200 consumers have voluntarily surrendered their LPG connections through the MYPNGD platform, indicating a shift toward cleaner fuel alternatives.

Strengthening India’s Petrochemical and Energy Ecosystem

Overall, the increased allocation of C3 and C4 streams highlights the government’s proactive approach to supporting critical industries amid global uncertainties. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, by ensuring feedstock availability, stabilizing fuel supply, and promoting cleaner energy adoption, India continues to strengthen its petrochemical and energy ecosystem while advancing its long-term sustainability goals.

Andhra Pradesh continues to strengthen its position as a preferred industrial destination, as a major new project takes shape at the Kakinada SEZ. Green Coke Energy Private Limited has announced an investment of ₹700 crore to set up a metallurgical coke manufacturing facility, further boosting the state’s expanding industrial ecosystem.

MoU Signed to Fast-Track Project Development

To move the project forward, Green Coke Energy Private Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kakinada SEZ Limited. The agreement was formalized by Managing Director Natarajan and Ram Reddy. The proposed facility will be developed over approximately 80 acres near AV Nagaram within the SEZ, enabling efficient access to infrastructure and logistics support.

Strengthening Steel Supply Chain with Metallurgical Coke

The upcoming plant will focus on producing metallurgical coke, a critical raw material used in steel manufacturing. As demand for steel continues to grow, this project will play a key role in strengthening the supply chain for core industries.

Boost to Regional Industrial Growth

The project is also likely to accelerate development in surrounding areas such as Tondangi and Uppada mandals in Kakinada district. With increased industrial activity, these regions are expected to benefit from improved infrastructure, ancillary businesses, and enhanced economic opportunities.

Backed by Government’s Industrial Push

The investment comes at a time when Andhra Pradesh is actively promoting itself as a manufacturing hub. The state government has been aggressively pursuing large-scale investments through policy support, infrastructure upgrades, and investor-friendly initiatives. Notably, recent developments such as the foundation stone laying for a major steel plant in Anakapalli district underline the government’s focus on expanding industrial capacity and attracting global players.

Kakinada SEZ Emerging as a Key Industrial Hub

Over the years, Kakinada SEZ has evolved into a prominent industrial cluster, hosting leading companies such as Aurobindo Pharma. The recent inauguration of a ₹2,500-crore pharma unit by Narendra Modi has further strengthened investor confidence in the region. With the addition of Green Coke Energy Private Limited, the SEZ is set to attract more energy-intensive and export-oriented industries, reinforcing its strategic importance.

Outlook: More Investments on the Horizon

Looking ahead, Andhra Pradesh is expected to witness a steady inflow of industrial investments. The government’s focus on streamlined approvals, attractive incentives, and robust infrastructure is creating a conducive environment for businesses. As reported by metroindia.net, as a result, the expansion of Kakinada SEZ is likely to accelerate, positioning it as a major industrial hub in the coming years.

GAIL (India) Limited approved an investment of ₹3,800 crore to develop 700 MW of solar power capacity across Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The move marks a major step in the company’s renewable energy expansion strategy and reinforces its commitment to sustainable growth.

Large-Scale Solar Project in Uttar Pradesh

As part of the initiative, GAIL (India) Limited will develop a 600 MW solar power project integrated with a 550 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the TUSCO Solar Park Jhansi. The project will primarily supply captive power to GAIL’s petrochemical plant at Pata in Auraiya district. By integrating battery storage, the company aims to ensure stable and efficient energy supply while reducing dependence on conventional power sources.

Expanding Renewable Footprint in Maharashtra

In addition, GAIL (India) Limited will set up a 100 MW solar power project with a 22 MWh BESS in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad). The facility will cater to the captive energy requirements of GAIL’s PDH-PP plant at Usar in Raigad district. As a result, the company will further strengthen its renewable integration across key industrial operations.

Advancing Net Zero and Energy Transition Goals

The projects represent a significant milestone in GAIL (India) Limited’s journey toward achieving its Net Zero targets. At the same time, they align with India’s broader energy transition agenda focused on expanding renewable energy capacity. Moreover, the integration of advanced Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will address the intermittency of solar power. This will enable reliable, round-the-clock renewable energy availability, thereby improving operational efficiency and sustainability.

Leadership Insight on Renewable Expansion

Highlighting the strategic importance of the initiative, Deepak Gupta stated that GAIL’s installed renewable energy capacity is expected to exceed 1,000 MW, up from the current 147 MW, once these projects are commissioned. He further emphasized that the expansion reflects the company’s vision to align business growth with environmental responsibility while ensuring long-term energy security.

Strengthening Position as an Integrated Energy Major

With these developments, GAIL (India) Limited continues to strengthen its role in driving India’s clean energy transition. By balancing conventional and green energy assets, the company is building a more resilient and future-ready energy portfolio. As reported by orissadiary.com, the projects underscore GAIL’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and leadership in the evolving energy landscape.

DCM Shriram Ltd. announced that its subsidiary, Shriram Polytech Ltd., has entered into a joint venture with Teknor Apex B.V., part of Teknor Apex. The new entity will operate under the brand name PolyTek, marking a strategic move to expand capabilities in advanced polymer compounds.

Strategic Partnership to Drive Polymer Innovation

The joint venture represents a key milestone in DCM Shriram Ltd.’s strategy to strengthen its polymer compounds portfolio while deepening global collaborations in high-growth sectors. By aligning capabilities, the partners aim to deliver innovative and high-performance specialty polymer solutions tailored to diverse industrial applications. The collaboration combines Shriram Polytech Ltd.’s strong domestic manufacturing base and expertise in vinyl compounds with Teknor Apex’s advanced formulation and global material science capabilities.

Leveraging India’s Manufacturing Growth Story

As one of the fastest-growing manufacturing and consumption hubs, India offers significant opportunities for innovation-led growth in advanced polymer compounds. Through PolyTek, the partners intend to capitalize on this momentum. In addition, the venture will strengthen supply chain resilience, improve access to cutting-edge material technologies, and raise product performance benchmarks across industries. This approach positions the JV to serve both domestic and international markets more effectively.

Leadership Perspective: Focus on Scale and Innovation

Ajay S Shriram emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating that it aligns with the company’s vision to build future-ready businesses by combining global expertise with strong domestic capabilities. He highlighted that India is at a critical inflection point in advanced manufacturing and technology adoption. Therefore, through this JV, the company aims to create a scalable platform that delivers high-performance solutions, drives innovation, and strengthens supply chain resilience to meet evolving customer demands.

Expanding Global Reach with Local Strength

Donald Wiseman noted that the collaboration brings together complementary strengths. While Shriram Polytech Ltd. offers a strong presence in vinyl materials and local market expertise, Teknor Apex contributes deep formulation knowledge and global experience. As a result, the partnership enables immediate access to an established manufacturing platform, strong market insights, and a robust operational foundation within one of Asia’s largest industrial ecosystems.

Commitment to Sustainability and Responsible Growth

Importantly, the PolyTek joint venture reflects a shared commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and responsible growth. The company will focus on delivering advanced polymer solutions that not only meet evolving customer requirements but also align with global environmental standards. By integrating global innovation with localized execution, the JV is well positioned to accelerate growth, enhance customer engagement, and expand its footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

Strengthening Position in Advanced Polymer Compounds

As per the press release, the formation of PolyTek reinforces the strategic intent of both partners to lead in the advanced polymer compounds segment. With a strong blend of technology, manufacturing, and market access, the joint venture is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-performance polymer solutions.

EnviTec Biogas successfully achieved initial feed-in from a 417 Nm³/h EnviThan gas upgrading plant, marking its second completed biomethane project in Slovakia. This milestone reinforces the company’s growing footprint in Europe’s renewable energy sector.

Project Details and Capacity Expansion Plans

The project, developed for CITA VIA s.r.o., upgrades 750 Nm³/h of biogas into high-quality biomethane at its facility in Ožďany. According to Stefan Laumann, the customer plans to scale up production significantly. In the long term, the plant’s capacity is expected to increase to as much as 1,300 Nm³/h of biogas, further enhancing output and efficiency.

From Conventional Biogas to Advanced Biomethane

The existing biogas plant has been operational for 14 years and currently utilizes feedstock such as maize, cattle straw dung, and chicken manure. With the integration of the new EnviThan upgrading system, the facility will continue generating electricity while simultaneously producing advanced biomethane.

Miroslav Kováčik highlighted that the addition significantly upgrades the plant’s capabilities. Furthermore, Viktor Hegedüs emphasized a future shift toward using only waste-based feedstocks. This transition will strengthen sustainability and support the green energy transition in Slovakia.

Advanced Technology Ensures Efficiency and Reliability

Efficiency and operational flexibility played a crucial role in selecting EnviTec Biogas as the project partner. The membrane-based EnviThan system, manufactured at the company’s Saerbeck facility, underwent rigorous Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) before delivery. The process ensures faster commissioning, reduced downtime, and optimized performance on-site. Additionally, proximity to EnviTec Service s.r.o. in Velké Meziříčí enables efficient maintenance and long-term service support.

Driving the Green Energy Transition in Central Europe

The project aligns with broader renewable energy goals in Slovakia, which is actively investing in clean energy expansion. According to the Energy Export Initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, biomethane is expected to play a key role in the country’s energy transition.

Slovakia has access to €103 million in funding from the EU Recovery Fund to support renewable energy projects. Moreover, studies indicate that around 34 biogas plants in the country have the potential to produce biomethane.

At the same time, Czech Republic is also advancing its decarbonization strategy. The Czech Biogas Association estimates that biomethane production from waste could reach up to 700 million cubic meters annually, with a target of developing around 100 plants by 2035.

Strengthening EnviTec’s Position in Biomethane

As per the press release, with this second successful project, EnviTec Biogas continues to strengthen its position as a leading provider of gas upgrading solutions. By combining advanced technology, operational efficiency, and strong regional partnerships, the company is well positioned to support Europe’s transition toward sustainable and low-carbon energy systems.

Evonik strengthened its portfolio of high-performance epoxy curing agents with the launch of Ancamine® 2875, a modified polyamine curing agent specifically developed for ultrafast curing, superior moisture vapor barrier performance, and strong adhesion to cold and damp concrete surfaces. With this latest introduction, Evonik reinforces its commitment to delivering advanced solutions for demanding industrial flooring applications, where speed, reliability, and long-term performance are essential.

Moisture intrusion remains one of the leading causes of flooring failures in commercial and industrial settings. By introducing Ancamine® 2875, Evonik aims to help customers overcome these challenges while improving application efficiency.

Combining ultrafast curing with extended working time

One of the most notable advantages of Ancamine® 2875 is its ability to deliver ultrafast curing without sacrificing working time—a combination that is often difficult to achieve in conventional epoxy systems.

Typically, rapid-curing systems offer limited pot life, making application more challenging. However, Evonik’s advanced formulation successfully balances both properties, enabling applicators to work efficiently while still benefiting from faster project turnaround times.

Moreover, the product eliminates the need for hazardous alkylphenol accelerators, resulting in an ultra-low-emission solution that supports improved worker safety and enhanced environmental compatibility. This feature makes the product especially attractive for projects requiring stricter safety and sustainability standards.

Designed to reduce moisture-related flooring failures

According to Evonik, moisture-related flooring failures continue to pose significant technical and financial risks for customers. “Moisture-related flooring failures remain a major risk for our customers, both technically and financially. With Ancamine® 2875, we deliver a solution that mitigates that risk while combining ultrafast curing with extended working time. This enables greater efficiency and compliance without compromising performance,” said Dr. Kevin Wohlhauser, Americas Market Director at Evonik Crosslinkers. By addressing moisture transmission issues at the substrate level, the new curing agent helps extend floor life and reduce costly repair or replacement expenses.

Certified ASTM performance for moisture vapor control

In addition to fast-curing capabilities, Ancamine® 2875 offers excellent moisture vapor barrier performance and has been certified to meet ASTM F3010 requirements. The certification highlights its effectiveness in preventing moisture vapor transmission through concrete floors—a critical factor in industrial, commercial, and high-performance flooring systems. As a result, the product significantly lowers the risk of coating delamination, blistering, and premature flooring failure. As per the press release, furthermore, testing under ASTM E-96 standards demonstrated that the curing agent can achieve moisture vapor barrier performance of less than 0.1 perms at coating thicknesses as low as 12 mils.