The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bengaluru-based NexPV Energy Systems to design and develop India’s first Sun simulator for concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems. The new facility will enable manufacturers to test and characterise CPV modules at the end of production lines in India. Currently, the country does not have dedicated testing infrastructure for these specialised solar modules. The project is being facilitated by Invariance Automation, a member company of IIT Kanpur’s Research and Technology Park Foundation (Technopark@IITK).

IIT Kanpur Leads CPV Testing Infrastructure Project

Professor Ashish Garg and his team from IIT Kanpur’s Department of Sustainable Energy Engineering are leading the Sun simulator project. The initiative forms part of IIT Kanpur’s research into clean-energy technologies that can progress from laboratory development to commercial manufacturing. At the same time, it supports Technopark@IITK’s efforts to strengthen industry-academia collaboration and indigenous technology development. Prof. Garg said India’s net-zero commitment requires solar deployment on a much larger scale. Therefore, he highlighted the need to develop domestic capabilities across the solar value chain, including reliable testing infrastructure. He noted that CPV modules operate differently from conventional flat-plate solar panels. As a result, they require specialised testing systems to accurately measure their performance.

CPV Technology Uses High-Efficiency Solar Cells

Unlike conventional photovoltaic panels, concentrated photovoltaic systems use optical lenses to focus sunlight onto small, highly efficient multi-junction solar cells. These multi-junction cells contain several semiconductor layers, with each layer capturing a different portion of the solar spectrum. Consequently, CPV systems can achieve high conversion efficiency while significantly reducing the amount of semiconductor material required. The solar cells occupy only around 0.1% of the corresponding solar collection area, potentially reducing cell requirements by more than 99% compared with conventional solar panels.

NexPV Advances Indigenous CPV Technology

NexPV Energy Systems, led by Chidananda Murthy R, has developed indigenous CPV technology. The company’s proof-of-concept systems have operated in the field for around three years, and NexPV is now preparing to scale up manufacturing. According to Murthy, CPV technology can create new opportunities for solar deployment in regions with high direct normal irradiance (DNI). He also highlighted the potential for CPV systems to use significantly less cell area and, in NexPV’s systems, approximately half the land required by conventional solar installations.

Simulator to Replicate CPV Operating Conditions

Existing Sun simulators primarily support conventional flat-plate photovoltaic modules. However, CPV modules require different testing conditions because they operate with direct, parallel sunlight and accept light within a very narrow angle. In addition, CPV performance depends strongly on the spectral balance of the simulated sunlight. Therefore, the IIT Kanpur team will develop a specialised simulator capable of accurately reproducing these operating conditions. The system will provide manufacturers with an important quality-assurance tool for evaluating CPV modules during production.

From Prototype to Commercial Manufacturing

Once developed, the Sun simulator could help bridge the gap between CPV research and commercial-scale manufacturing in India. In the next phase, Invariance Automation is expected to serve as the preferred manufacturing partner for transitioning the simulator from prototype development to production. As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, by establishing domestic CPV testing infrastructure, the project aims to support indigenous solar technology development, improve manufacturing quality assurance and facilitate the scale-up of concentrated photovoltaic systems in India.

Deepak Chem Tech, a wholly owned subsidiary of Deepak Nitrite, commissioned a new chlorination and specialty chemicals manufacturing facility at Dahej, Gujarat. The new facility will expand the company’s production capabilities for chlorination-based products and specialty chemicals serving a range of industrial applications.

₹300 Crore Investment to Expand Production

Deepak Chem Tech invested approximately ₹300 crore in the facility. The expansion supports the Group’s strategy to broaden its specialty chemicals portfolio and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. Furthermore, the facility will help the company respond to growing demand for specialised chemical products while creating opportunities to develop additional value-added downstream products.

Dahej Facility to Support Downstream Growth

Located in Dahej, one of India’s major chemical and petrochemical hubs, the plant benefits from an established industrial ecosystem, strong infrastructure and access to port facilities. These advantages will support efficient manufacturing and logistics while enabling Deepak Chem Tech to expand its presence across downstream specialty chemical applications. As reported by projectstoday.ai, the commissioning marks another step in the Group’s efforts to build higher-value specialty chemicals capabilities, strengthen its manufacturing base and capture emerging opportunities in India’s growing chemical industry.

ACME Solar Holdings, through its wholly owned subsidiary ACME Sigma Urja, commissioned the first phase of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) component of its firm and dispatchable renewable energy (FDRE) project in Rajasthan. The project is located at Neemri village in Chittorgarh district. The first phase includes 53.73 MW / 222.969 MWh of the planned 250 MW storage capacity. ACME Solar completed the installation on 30 September 2026.

First Phase of 250 MW BESS Project

With this commissioning, ACME Solar has brought the initial storage component of the project online. However, the associated renewable energy generation component remains under active development. The commissioned BESS will form part of the project’s integrated energy infrastructure, enabling the storage and delivery of electricity in line with the requirements of the FDRE project.

Supporting Reliable Renewable Power

The commissioning marks a step forward in expanding advanced energy storage infrastructure in Rajasthan. By combining battery storage with renewable energy generation, the FDRE project is designed to support more stable and reliable power delivery. Furthermore, the BESS can help manage the variability associated with renewable power and improve the flexibility of electricity supply. As reported by projectstoday.ai, the project will add to India’s growing energy storage infrastructure as the country expands its renewable energy capacity and seeks solutions for reliable, dispatchable clean power.

India’s oil and gas production from overseas assets declined by more than 12.3% over five years, falling to 19.2 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE) in 2025-26 from 21.9 MMTOE in 2020-21, according to government data. At the same time, domestic oil and gas production increased during the period. As a result, overseas production as a share of India’s domestic output fell significantly.

Overseas Production Share Declines

In 2020-21, India produced 59.2 MMTOE of oil and gas domestically, while its overseas assets contributed 21.9 MMTOE. Overseas production therefore equalled around 37% of domestic output. By 2025-26, domestic production had increased to 62.7 MMTOE. However, overseas production declined to 19.2 MMTOE, reducing the ratio to approximately 30.7%. The decline comes as India continues to rely heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements. The country imports more than 88% of its crude oil requirements and around 50% of its natural gas, according to a recent parliamentary report.

Parliamentary Panel Calls for Overseas Investment

The Committee on Estimates has highlighted the importance of investing in overseas oil and gas assets to strengthen India’s energy security. In its report, Supply and Distribution of Natural Gas – Challenges and Prospects, the committee noted that overseas investments remain important because India is a net importer of oil and gas. The report also stated that state-owned Indian oil and gas companies hold interests in 45 overseas assets across 21 countries. These include 21 producing assets, 14 assets under exploration, seven under development and three pipeline projects. According to the report, overseas oil and gas production stood at around 20.2 MMTOE in 2024-25.

ONGC Videsh Leads Overseas Asset Portfolio

ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), the overseas arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), holds stakes in most of these international assets. Other state-owned companies, including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Oil India and GAIL India, also maintain overseas oil and gas portfolios. Indian companies have interests in assets across a wide range of countries, including Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bangladesh, Canada, Colombia, Gabon, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nigeria, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, Syria, the UAE, the US, Venezuela and Vietnam. The petroleum ministry, ONGC and OVL did not respond to requests for comment.

OVL Production Declines Amid Geopolitical Challenges

According to OVL’s 2025-26 annual report, the company operates 30 assets across five continents and 14 countries. However, geopolitical developments affected production during the year. OVL’s oil and gas output declined by around 6% to 9.67 MMTOE in 2025-26, compared with 10.28 MMTOE in the previous year. The company’s Russian assets, including Vankor and Sakhalin-1, contributed the largest share of its overseas production. The decline in overseas output highlights the challenges Indian energy companies face while managing international assets amid geopolitical uncertainty. As reported by hindustantimes.com, at the same time, continued investment in overseas resources remains a key consideration for India as it seeks to strengthen energy security and diversify its sources of oil and gas supply.

Investment firm KKR announced a majority investment in Cisternina Logistics Pvt Ltd, an
India-focused company specialising in bulk liquid and gas storage and logistics. The investment will support Cisternina’s acquisition of the liquid storage terminal and rail business of Ganesh Benzoplast Ltd (GBL). The acquired business will serve as the anchor asset for Cisternina’s planned pan-India storage and logistics platform. KKR has not disclosed the value of the investment.

Cisternina to Expand Storage and Logistics Network

Established in 2024, Cisternina Logistics plans to use the GBL business as a foundation for expanding its operations across India. The company intends to pursue additional acquisitions and develop new infrastructure to strengthen its liquid storage and logistics network. Consequently, the platform aims to create a broader infrastructure base to serve the growing requirements of bulk liquid and gas customers.

Focus on Energy, Chemicals and Bulk Liquids

Cisternina will serve customers across several sectors, including energy, chemicals, bulk liquids and edible oils. Through an integrated storage and logistics platform, the company plans to provide infrastructure and related services to customers handling liquid commodities and industrial products. Meanwhile, GBL’s liquid storage terminal business operates one of India’s leading privately owned tank farms. Its integration into Cisternina’s platform will provide an established operating base for the company’s expansion strategy.

KKR Supports India-Focused Infrastructure Platform

KKR’s investment will enable Cisternina to build on the acquired GBL assets and pursue further growth opportunities in India’s liquid storage and logistics sector. As reported by moneycontrol.cm, by combining existing terminal infrastructure with new investments and acquisitions, Cisternina aims to develop a pan-India liquid storage and logistics platform serving the energy and industrial sectors.

TrueRE Oriana Power Limited, an integrated renewable energy company in India, announced the sale of its 110 MWp commercial and industrial (C&I) solar portfolio to Actis at an enterprise value of ₹501 crore. The transaction forms part of Oriana Power’s proposed divestment of approximately 238 MW of operational solar assets to Actis. Through the deal, the company aims to unlock capital and strengthen its strategy of recycling investments into new clean-energy opportunities.

Actis Acquires Stakes in Two Solar SPVs

As part of the transaction, TrueRE Oriana Power has transferred its stakes in Truere Guj SPV Private Limited and Truere Current Private Limited to Actis. The transaction marks the first milestone in the companies’ expanding strategic partnership. According to TrueRE Oriana Power, the capital generated through the asset sale will support its next phase of growth across solar, battery energy storage systems (BESS), green fuels and emerging clean-energy infrastructure. Anirudh Saraswat, Founder and Chief Business Officer, TrueRE Oriana Power, said the company will continue to evaluate opportunities that strengthen its asset-recycling strategy.

Expanding Strategic Partnership with Actis

The latest transaction builds on an existing partnership between TrueRE Oriana Power and Actis to jointly develop 1 GW of renewable energy assets. The partnership combines Oriana Power’s project development and execution capabilities with Actis’s global investment expertise and financial resources. Together, the companies aim to support the development and expansion of large-scale renewable energy projects. The asset sale supports Oriana Power’s approach of developing high-quality, bankable assets and selectively monetising them to recycle capital. The company plans to redeploy the released capital into new projects while strengthening its balance sheet.

SCALE and Flywheel Strategy to Drive Growth

Following strong growth and financial performance in recent years, TrueRE Oriana Power is entering its next phase of expansion through its SCALE and Flywheel strategy. The strategy focuses on scaling the company’s integrated energy platform while selectively monetising assets to recycle capital. At the same time, the company plans to build long-term asset ownership across renewable generation and energy storage. In addition, Oriana Power plans to leverage AI, robotics and strategic partnerships while expanding into emerging clean-energy segments.

FY30 Targets Include Solar, EPC and BESS

Building on this strategy, TrueRE Oriana Power has set ambitious FY30 targets. The company aims to reach approximately 6 GW of solar EPC capacity, 2.5 GW of solar IPP capacity and 20 GWh of BESS capacity. These targets reflect the company’s focus on expanding its integrated clean-energy platform across renewable power generation, project execution and energy storage. As per the press release, the sale of the 110 MWp C&I solar portfolio therefore represents an important step in Oriana Power’s capital-recycling strategy, allowing the company to unlock value from operational assets while creating additional capacity to invest in its future clean-energy pipeline.

thyssenkrupp nucera bagged a chlor-alkali technology order in China from Hongniu Lanzhou Environmental Protection Technology. The order, valued in the low double-digit million-euro range, further expands the company’s installed base in Northwest China, a major hub for large-scale chlor-alkali production. Under the contract, thyssenkrupp nucera will provide technology licensing, engineering and procurement services, key equipment and commissioning support for a new chlor-alkali project.

e-BiTAC v7 Technology to Improve Energy Efficiency

Hongniu Lanzhou has selected thyssenkrupp nucera’s latest-generation e-BiTAC v7 technology for the project. The technology is designed to deliver energy-efficient chlor-alkali electrolysis while supporting reliable operation in demanding industrial environments. The advanced BiTAC technology achieves power consumption of less than 1,960 kWh per tonne of NaOH at 6 kA/m². Building on thyssenkrupp nucera’s established BiTAC technology platform, e-BiTAC v7 aims to improve operational performance, reliability and lifecycle value. Keisho Cho, CEO of thyssenkrupp nucera China and Japan, said the order demonstrates continued customer confidence in the company’s chlor-alkali technology, project execution capabilities and industry expertise.

Hongniu Lanzhou Enters Chlor-Alkali Market

For Hongniu Lanzhou, the project represents its entry into the chlor-alkali industry. The company selected thyssenkrupp nucera based on its proven electrolysis technology, operating references, project execution capabilities and lifecycle support. Wang Zhaomin, General Manager of Hongniu Group, said the company sees thyssenkrupp nucera’s combination of energy-efficient operation, reliability and global chlor-alkali expertise as important for developing large-scale projects. Hongniu Lanzhou, a wholly owned subsidiary of Jiangsu Hongniu, serves as the group’s strategic project platform in Northwest China. Its activities include industrial waste salt recycling and utilisation, chemical manufacturing and sales, environmental technology research and development, technical consulting and engineering services.

First Contract Could Lead to Further Collaboration

The order marks the first contract between Hongniu Lanzhou and thyssenkrupp nucera. Therefore, the project could provide a foundation for further strategic cooperation between the two companies. As Hongniu Lanzhou enters the chlor-alkali market, the selection of an established electrolysis technology and an experienced project partner will support the development and commissioning of its new facility.

thyssenkrupp nucera Expands China Chlor-Alkali Footprint

The latest order aligns with thyssenkrupp nucera’s strategy to expand its position in the global and Chinese chlor-alkali market while increasing its installed technology base in key growth regions. China remains a major market for chlor-alkali electrolysis, supported by industrial demand, capacity expansion and the modernisation of existing facilities. In addition, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency and environmental performance, creating demand for advanced electrolysis technologies. As per the press release, through the Hongniu Lanzhou project, thyssenkrupp nucera will further strengthen its presence in Northwest China while supporting the adoption of energy-efficient chlor-alkali production technology.

ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa Electric Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing a hydrogen ecosystem in Slovenia. The partnership aims to strengthen the resilience of the country’s critical energy infrastructure while establishing a foundation for a low-carbon hydrogen sector. The companies signed the agreement on September 10 alongside ministerial meetings in Japan. Representatives from the Japanese and Slovenian governments witnessed the signing, highlighting the growing industrial cooperation between the two countries.

Strengthening Electricity, Gas and Hydrogen Integration

Under the MoU, ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa will explore ways to improve the resilience of Slovenia’s critical energy infrastructure. In particular, the partners will focus on sector coupling across electricity, gas and hydrogen networks. As renewable energy deployment expands, integrating these energy systems can help improve energy security and system stability. Therefore, the companies plan to investigate solutions that enable electricity, gas and hydrogen infrastructure to operate in a more coordinated manner.

The collaboration will include a potential demonstration project for a hydrogen plant connected to Slovenia’s electricity and gas transmission networks. The partners will also examine digital solutions to coordinate the operation of these interconnected infrastructures. In addition, the initiative will explore green hydrogen mobility solutions for maintaining electricity and gas networks. The partners also plan to assess mobile backup power units that can support electricity distribution while serving as fast-charging units.

Combining Energy Infrastructure and Digital Expertise

The three companies will contribute complementary capabilities to support Slovenia’s hydrogen ambitions. ELES will contribute its experience in managing and developing Slovenia’s electricity transmission system. It also initiated a consortium focused on developing a hydrogen ecosystem based on low-carbon hydrogen sources on the power side.

Plinovodi will contribute its expertise in gas transmission infrastructure and hydrogen infrastructure development. The company is also working to integrate Slovenia into emerging European hydrogen corridors. As part of the European Hydrogen Backbone initiative, Plinovodi is preparing its transmission system for renewable and carbon-neutral gases while laying the groundwork for Slovenia’s future hydrogen backbone. Meanwhile, Yokogawa will bring its international expertise in industrial automation, digitalisation and hydrogen-related technologies. Its experience includes initiatives supporting hydrogen ecosystems and green hydrogen applications.

Feasibility Study to Assess Hydrogen Integration

Yokogawa Europe will lead the collaboration activities under the MoU. As the first step, the partners will conduct a feasibility study covering the technical, operational and commercial aspects of integrating hydrogen into Slovenia’s energy infrastructure. The study will help identify practical pathways for connecting hydrogen with existing electricity and gas systems. It will also support Slovenia’s efforts to leverage its strategic position within European energy corridors as demand for renewable and carbon-neutral energy solutions increases.

Hydrogen Could Support Future Industry and Transport

Aleksander Mervar, MSc, Chief Executive Officer of ELES, said the MoU marks the beginning of a major project for Slovenia’s energy sector. He noted that the initiative could provide a foundation for wider deployment of hydrogen technologies across industry and transport. According to Mervar, the knowledge, technology and operational experience developed through the partnership could also be applied to critical energy infrastructure beyond Slovenia, supporting more resilient, flexible and sustainable energy systems across Europe.

Matija Bitenc, MSc, Chief Executive Officer of Plinovodi, said the partnership represents an important step towards a more connected and resilient energy system in Slovenia and the wider region. He highlighted the importance of integrating different energy infrastructures rather than developing individual energy carriers in isolation. According to Bitenc, hydrogen could connect electricity and gas infrastructure while providing greater flexibility, resilience and utilisation of existing assets.

Japan-Slovenia Cooperation on Hydrogen

Koji Nakaoka, Executive Vice President & Executive Officer and Head of the Energy & Sustainability Business Headquarters at Yokogawa Electric Corporation, said hydrogen will play an important role in the energy transition. He added that the collaboration will support the development of a resilient and sustainable hydrogen ecosystem in Slovenia while strengthening hydrogen cooperation between Japan and Slovenia. The partnership also reflects the companies’ focus on reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Supporting Europe’s Low-Carbon Energy Transition

The MoU marks another step in Slovenian-Japanese industrial cooperation and creates a framework for exploring hydrogen-based solutions for future energy infrastructure. The partnership highlights the role of international collaboration in developing technologies, infrastructure and investment models for the energy transition. By combining expertise from Japan and Europe, ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa aim to explore solutions addressing energy security, infrastructure resilience, sustainability and decarbonisation. As per the press release, the feasibility study and subsequent demonstration activities could provide practical insights into integrating hydrogen with electricity and gas networks, supporting the development of Slovenia’s future low-carbon energy system.

KPI Green Energy bagged a work order worth approximately ₹2,025 crore, including taxes and GST, from NACOF Oorja Private Ltd (NOPL) for the turnkey Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) of a 500 MW / 550 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power project in Rajasthan.

Project to Come Up in Bikaner

The solar project forms part of NOPL’s planned 5,000 MW Solar Photovoltaic Power Park at Village Dantoor, Tehsil Khajuwala, in Rajasthan’s Bikaner district. NOPL is a subsidiary of the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NACOF). Under the contract, KPI Green Energy will execute the project on a turnkey basis, covering the complete design, engineering, procurement, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the solar PV plant.

EPC Scope Covers Key Solar Infrastructure

The EPC scope includes a wide range of project components and infrastructure, including:

Civil and associated works

PV modules

Module mounting structures

Inverters and inverter transformers

High-tension (HT) switchgear

Associated electrical systems

33 kV transmission line

Evacuation bay

SCADA and monitoring systems

As a result, KPI Green Energy will manage the project across the major stages from engineering and procurement through installation and commissioning.

Project Targeted for Completion Within 12 Months

The company will complete the EPC works within 12 months from the handover of the project site, up to the commissioning stage. Furthermore, the new order follows a 500 MW / 550 MWp solar Balance of System (BOS) package that KPI Green Energy received earlier from NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd for a project in Bikaner. As reported by cnbctv18.com, the latest contract adds to KPI Green Energy’s EPC order book and strengthens its presence in Rajasthan’s growing solar power infrastructure market. The company also expects the project to provide revenue visibility over the coming year as it progresses towards commissioning.

OSH India 2026, organised by Informa Markets in India, will take place from October 7–9, 2026, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. The 14^th edition of the occupational safety and health exhibition will bring together safety professionals, employers, government authorities, industry leaders, technology providers and global experts to examine emerging solutions and practices shaping workplace safety. The event is expected to feature 300+ exhibiting brands, more than 9,000 visitors, 20+ knowledge sessions, 100+ delegates and 65 plus speakers, with participation from over 13 countries.

Industry Leaders to Showcase Safety Solutions

The exhibition will attract decision-makers and professionals from manufacturing, construction, infrastructure, engineering, facilities management, maintenance, healthcare and defence, among other sectors where occupational safety remains a key operational priority. Key exhibitors are expected to include Karam Safety, Venus Safety and Health, Udyogi, PERF, Rameshwar, Aktion Safety, Mallcom, HS International, DPL, FUEL, Torpedo, Woodland, Allen Cooper and Bisonlife, among others.

Focus on Emerging Workplace Safety Challenges

Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, said workplace safety extends beyond compliance and plays an important role in protecting employees and supporting business continuity. He highlighted the need for organisations to prepare for emerging risks, including those associated with rising workplace temperatures. According to the International Labour Organization, around 2.41 billion workers globally are exposed to excessive heat each year. Against this backdrop, OSH India 2026 will focus on solutions spanning personal protective equipment (PPE), AI-enabled technologies, ergonomics and workplace health.

AI and Innovation Take Centre Stage

Technology will play a key role at OSH India 2026, with dedicated platforms highlighting the latest developments in workplace risk management. The AI Corner will showcase applications of artificial intelligence in occupational safety, while the Innovation Zone will feature new products and technologies designed to address evolving safety requirements. The Start-Up Pavilion will give emerging companies an opportunity to present next-generation safety solutions. The machinery and components segment will also showcase advanced machinery, equipment and components aimed at improving workplace safety and operational efficiency.

OSH Gurukul to Drive Knowledge Exchange

Alongside the exhibition, the OSH Gurukul Conference will bring together safety professionals, industry experts and thought leaders for discussions on occupational safety and health. In addition, the VIP Lounge and Distinguished Buyers programme will facilitate targeted networking between solution providers, senior decision-makers and qualified buyers. The Compliance Advantage will also help industry stakeholders track evolving regulations, standards and compliance requirements.

India’s OSH Market Sees Growth Opportunities

India’s occupational safety and health market is expanding amid industrialisation, regulatory reforms, technological advancements and growing awareness of workplace safety. The market is projected to reach US$17.86 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 11.1%. Furthermore, the implementation of the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 is expected to strengthen safety and compliance practices across industries.

However, the sector continues to face challenges, including a large unorganised workforce, gaps in enforcement, a shortage of skilled OSH professionals and limited public spending. Consequently, these challenges are creating opportunities for technology-driven safety solutions, specialised equipment and professional OSH services.

Building Safer and More Resilient Workplaces

As per the press release, as businesses increasingly integrate workplace safety with operational resilience and employee wellbeing, OSH India 2026 will provide a platform to explore the role of technology, innovation, skills development, compliance and industry collaboration in building safer and healthier workplaces across India.