Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) initiated its first full-scale Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) pilot project at the Gandhar oilfield in Gujarat, marking a significant milestone in the company’s decarbonisation journey.

Using Depleted Wells for Carbon Storage

As part of the pilot, ONGC plans to store captured carbon dioxide in depleted onshore wells at the Gandhar field. Specifically, the project will utilize two abandoned wells, enabling the safe injection of carbon dioxide into subsurface hydrocarbon reservoirs.

Daily Injection of Captured Carbon Dioxide

According to officials, the pilot will inject approximately 100 tons of carbon dioxide per day. By permanently storing the greenhouse gas underground, ONGC aims to prevent atmospheric emissions while validating the long-term integrity of geological storage.

Carbon Sourced from Industrial and ONGC Facilities

To support the initiative, ONGC will capture carbon dioxide from nearby industrial units in the Dahej region, in addition to emissions from its Hazira plant. The captured CO₂ will then be transported to the Gandhar oilfield for controlled underground injection.

Exploring Enhanced Oil Recovery Potential

Beyond carbon storage, the project will also evaluate the feasibility of using carbon dioxide for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Through this approach, ONGC seeks to convert an environmental challenge into a productive resource, while improving hydrocarbon recovery from mature reservoirs. As reported by newsonprojects.com, overall, the CCS pilot reinforces ONGC’s commitment to low-carbon technologies and positions the company at the forefront of carbon management initiatives in India’s upstream energy sector.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has earned national recognition as one of India’s Top 50 Innovative Companies, winning the CII Industrial Intellectual Property Awards 2025. The honour underscores BPCL’s strong leadership in intellectual property (IP) management and its continued focus on innovation-led growth.

Award Highlights Excellence in IP Management

The recognition reflects BPCL’s sustained performance in developing, protecting, and managing intellectual assets, including patents, designs, and trademarks, over the past three years. Through a structured and strategic IP framework, BPCL has consistently strengthened its innovation ecosystem.

Corporate R&D Centre Drives Innovation

BPCL’s Corporate R&D Centre (CRDC) has played a pivotal role in this achievement. The centre has led efforts to generate high-quality intellectual property by filing strong patents and ensuring robust protection of proprietary technologies. As a result, CRDC has been instrumental in transforming BPCL into an IP-driven, innovation-focused organisation.

Award Received by R&D Leadership

Dr. Ravi Kumar V., Chief General Manager (R&D), received the award on behalf of BPCL, along with members of the CRDC team. The recognition highlights the collective efforts of BPCL’s R&D leadership and innovation teams.

Strengthening Competitiveness Through Innovation

Receiving the CII Industrial Intellectual Property Award 2025 further reinforces BPCL’s position as a technology-driven energy company. As reported by indiamasterminds.com, the company’s IP-led initiatives enhance competitiveness and create new business opportunities. They also support the development of next-generation energy solutions, aligned with BPCL’s long-term sustainability and growth objectives.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has successfully commissioned the Residue Upgradation Facility (RUF) at its Visakh Refinery, marking a defining moment in India’s deep-conversion refining journey. This milestone significantly strengthens the country’s energy security while reinforcing HPCL’s position among the most technologically advanced refiners globally.

Advancing Aatmanirbhar Bharat Through Indigenous Engineering

Aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, HPCL ensured that several critical equipment for the project were indigenously manufactured. This achievement not only enhances India’s refining self-reliance but also showcases domestic engineering and manufacturing capabilities at an unprecedented scale.

Notably, the facility houses three LC-Max reactors, each weighing approximately 2,200 metric tonnes—among the heaviest such reactors in the world—underscoring the project’s exceptional engineering complexity and scale.

High-Conversion Technology Unlocks Superior Product Yields

With a processing capacity of 3.55 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA), the RUF deploys advanced LC-Max–based residue hydrocracking technology. This enables conversion of nearly 93% of bottom oils into high-value products.

As a result, the Visakh Refinery can now enhance its distillate yield by up to 10% compared to pre-Visakh Refinery Modernization Project (VRMP) levels. This step-change in conversion efficiency significantly improves the refinery’s overall output quality and value.

Boosting Margins Through Feedstock Flexibility and Value Realisation

The commissioning of the RUF is set to substantially improve the Gross Refining Margins (GRMs) of the Visakh Refinery. Enhanced product slate, greater flexibility to process heavier and opportunity crudes, and higher value realisation per barrel collectively drive this improvement.

Moreover, the increased production of middle distillates allows HPCL to narrow the gap between its high-speed diesel (HSD) marketing and refining volumes. This reduces dependence on external sourcing, strengthens the supply chain, and improves profitability through better margin capture.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Gains

Alongside higher conversion and margins, the project delivers meaningful sustainability benefits. Improved heat integration and enhanced process efficiency have reduced the refinery’s Energy Intensity Index (EII), lowering operating costs while supporting HPCL’s environmental objectives.

At the same time, the Nelson Complexity Index of the Visakh Refinery has risen to an impressive 11.6, positioning it among India’s most advanced deep-conversion refineries and enabling global benchmarking of performance and long-term profitability.

Digital-First Operations with Industry-Leading AI Integration

Complementing the physical commissioning, HPCL has deployed the RUF (LC-Max) Digital Suite—an industry-first for Indian refineries. Embedded from start-up, the suite integrates real-time monitoring, predictive analytics powered by proprietary thermodynamic models, and AI-driven optimisation tools.

This digital backbone enables stable and efficient operation of the highly complex unit, ensuring higher on-stream factors, tighter yield control, and sustained margin enhancement over the long term.

Acknowledging Stakeholder Support

As per the press release, the company also places on record its sincere appreciation for project partners, licensors, vendors, contractors, and dedicated internal teams. Their technical excellence, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in the successful commissioning of the Residue Upgradation Facility.

Nazhat J. Shaikh, Director (finance) of Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCFL), has assumed additional charge as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the company with effect from January 1, 2026. The transition follows the superannuation of S. C. Mudgerikar on December 31, 2025, marking the conclusion of his tenure as CMD.

Leadership Transition in Line with Governance Norms

Extensive Experience Across Public Sector Enterprises

Shaikh served as Director (finance) at the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). During her tenure, she also held additional charge as CMD of NFDC for a brief period, further strengthening her leadership credentials.

Supporting Agriculture Through Innovation and Sustainability

As reported by indiamasterminds.com, RCFL plays a critical role in supporting India’s agricultural sector. Through its manufacturing and marketing operations, it also supports key industrial sectors. At the same time, the company continues to emphasize sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence, aligning its growth strategy with national priorities.

Prof. T. P. Radhakrishnan, Emeritus Professor at the School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad (UoH), selected for the DAE–Raja Ramanna Chair, a highly prestigious national scheme instituted by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). The three-year tenure of the Chair will be availed at the University of Hyderabad.

Distinguished Academic Career at UoH

Significant Contributions to Chemistry and Materials Science

Over the years, Prof. Radhakrishnan has made notable contributions in the broad domains of physical chemistry and materials chemistry. In particular, his research has advanced the understanding of molecular functional materials and nanocomposite thin films, areas that hold strong relevance for emerging technologies and advanced materials research.

About the DAE–Raja Ramanna Chair

Awarded for a three-year term, the Chair recognizes exceptional contributions in disciplines such as materials science, sensors, quantum physics, and related advanced technologies, while strengthening collaboration between national laboratories and leading universities.

Strengthening Research Excellence

As reported by telenganatoday.com, with Prof. Radhakrishnan’s appointment, the University of Hyderabad stands to further strengthen its research ecosystem, particularly in cutting-edge areas of materials and molecular sciences. His continued engagement under the DAE–Raja Ramanna Chair will foster high-impact research and mentorship aligned with national scientific priorities.

Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company (Luberef) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Aramco to explore potential cooperation in developing a base oil production facility at the Jazan Refinery and Petrochemical Complex.

Feasibility Studies Under Early-Stage Framework

Under the MoU, the two companies will jointly assess the feasibility of establishing a base oil manufacturing plant at the Jazan Refinery. In particular, the agreement provides a structured framework for conducting technical, commercial, and operational studies.
These studies are carried out during the early stages of project evaluation.

Feedstock Supply from Saudi Aramco

As part of the proposed concept, the project would rely on the supply of unconverted crude oil from Saudi Aramco as feedstock. This integration will support efficient base oil production and leverage the strengths of both companies.

Supporting Luberef’s Group III+ Growth Strategy

Luberef noted that the initiative is an important step in its Group III+ expansion project. The project aims to increase base oil production capacity and strengthen the company’s position in high-performance lubricant markets.

Non-Binding Agreement with Defined Timeline

The MoU is non-binding and will remain in effect for 18 months from January 1, 2026, with an option for extension by mutual agreement. At this stage, the agreement does not create any financial obligations for either party.

Regulatory Disclosure and Financial Impact

As reported by argaam.com, Luberef clarified that no financial impact can currently be determined. However, the company will disclose any material developments, including final approvals, binding agreements, or financial implications. All disclosures will follow applicable regulatory requirements.

The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the representative body of the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, announced the conclusion of Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun’s tenure as Secretary General after more than sixteen years of dedicated service. At the same time, the Association has confirmed the appointment of Eng. Mater Aldhafeeri as his successor.

Transition Aligned with GPCA’s Next Phase of Growth

The leadership transition comes as GPCA prepares to enter a new phase of transformation, focused on delivering greater value to its members and strengthening its role amid rapid change across the regional and global chemicals industry.

Chairman Recognises Dr. Al-Sadoun’s Contributions

Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, Chairman of GPCA, expressed deep appreciation for Dr. Al-Sadoun’s long-standing leadership and contributions. Under his stewardship, GPCA significantly expanded its regional and international presence while reinforcing its position as a key industry voice.

Welcoming the New Secretary General

The chairman welcomed Eng. Mater Aldhafeeri as the new Secretary General. With nearly three decades of leadership experience across the petrochemical and industrial sectors, Aldhafeeri brings a strong blend of operational, strategic, and industry expertise.

Guiding GPCA Through Industry Transformation

As per the press release, Eng. Al-Fageeh noted that Aldhafeeri is well positioned to build on GPCA’s strong foundations, further strengthen engagement with members and stakeholders, and lead the Association through a period of significant opportunity and transformation for the chemicals industry.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) inaugurated a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) demonstration plant at its Visakh Refinery, marking an important milestone in India’s clean aviation journey. The facility will produce SAF through the co-processing of used cooking oil (UCO) in the refinery’s Full Conversion Hydrocracker Unit, effectively leveraging existing infrastructure and minimising additional capital intensity.

Advancing India’s SAF Blending Targets

With this development, India has taken a decisive step towards achieving its SAF blending targets of one percent by 2027, two percent by 2028, and five percent by 2030. The initiative reflects steady progress in India’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable aviation fuels.

Roadmap for Commercial-Scale SAF Production

The Visakh refinery will begin producing approximately ten thousand metric tons (TMT) of SAF per annum from January 2027, following CORSIA certification. The production will contribute directly to India’s efforts to decarbonise aviation. It will also promote a circular, waste-to-wealth economy by using used cooking oil as a feedstock.

Alignment with Global Climate Commitments

The SAF initiative aligns with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). CORSIA was adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Under CORSIA, airlines must offset emissions exceeding a defined baseline. SAF is a critical tool for long-term emissions reduction in international aviation.

Strengthening Energy Self-Reliance and Net-Zero Goals

As reported by chinimandi.com, the commissioning of the SAF demonstration plant reinforces India’s energy self-reliance. It also supports the country’s broader Net-Zero commitments. By integrating SAF into refinery operations, HPCL is demonstrating how traditional energy infrastructure can adapt to low-carbon pathways.

Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) achieved a major project milestone on 31 December 2025 by successfully commissioning the Crude Oil Integration Facility (COIF) after securing approval from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The clearance paved the way for the safe and systematic start-up of critical refinery operations.

First Major Step Toward Full Unit Commissioning

Following the COIF commissioning, NRL completed the oil in activity at the CDU–VDU. This marked the first significant operational step towards fully commissioning the refinery’s core processing unit. Consequently, this development sets the foundation for the phase-wise commissioning of other units under the Numaligarh Refinery Expansion Project (NREP).

Flagship Expansion to Boost Capacity

The NREP is NRL’s flagship six million tons per annum (MTPA) expansion project. Once completed, it will increase the refinery’s total capacity from three MTPA to nine MTPA at its Golaghat facility in Assam. As a result, the project will emerge as a critical energy infrastructure asset for Northeast India, strengthening regional fuel availability and supply security.

Leadership Presence at COIF Inauguration

The COIF inauguration and oil in operations were led by Girish Kumar Borah, Director (Technical), NRL, in the presence of senior company officials and project partners. Their participation underscored the coordinated effort and technical rigor involved in advancing the expansion project.

Strengthening Energy Security and Regional Growth

As reported by projectstoday.com, the milestone highlights NRL’s strong project execution capabilities. It also reinforces the company’s commitment to India’s energy security, regional development, and self-reliance in the petroleum sector. As the expansion progresses, NRL continues to play a pivotal role in supporting economic growth and infrastructure development in the Northeast.

Waaree Energies Ltd bagged a significant order for the supply of 1.5 GW of solar modules, reinforcing its strong position in India’s renewable energy supply chain. The order comprises 1,000 MW of Domestic Content Requirement (DCR)–compliant modules and 500 MW of non-DCR modules, highlighting the company’s ability to cater to diverse market requirements.

Execution Timeline and Customer Profile

According to the company, the order has been placed by a well-established customer engaged in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Moreover, Waaree will execute the supplies during the FY 2026–27 period, ensuring a steady contribution to its future revenue pipeline.

Inverter Manufacturing Operations Commence

In parallel, Waaree Energies announced a major manufacturing milestone with the start of operations at its new solar PV inverter manufacturing facility through its wholly owned subsidiary, Waaree Power. Located at Sarodhi–Valsad in Gujarat, the facility marks Waaree’s strategic entry into power electronics manufacturing.

Capacity Addition Strengthens Power Electronics Play

The new plant houses two inverter manufacturing lines, each with an annual capacity of 1.525 GW. Consequently, Waaree’s total installed inverter manufacturing capacity has reached 3.05 GW, significantly strengthening its integrated clean energy portfolio.

Commercial Production Begins

Commercial production at the inverter facility commenced on 29 December 2025, representing a key step in Waaree’s expansion strategy. As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, the new order win and manufacturing ramp-up highlight the company’s focus on scale and technology. They also underscore Waaree’s commitment to long-term growth in India’s rapidly evolving solar energy market.