Serentica Renewables, the renewable energy arm of the Vedanta Group, commissioned the first phase of its 1 GWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Bikaner, Rajasthan. The milestone marks the company’s entry into utility-scale battery energy storage for the commercial and industrial (C&I) sector, enabling the delivery of reliable and dispatchable renewable power to energy-intensive industries.

Phase I Adds 50 MW/200 MWh of Battery Storage Capacity

The first phase of the project comprises a 50 MW/200 MWh Battery Energy Storage System, designed to store surplus renewable energy generated during daylight hours and discharge it during periods of peak electricity demand. As a result, the system enables industries to access clean electricity even during nighttime, improving the reliability of renewable energy supply and reducing dependence on conventional power sources.

Modular Design Enhances Grid Stability

Serentica developed the BESS using a modular architecture, allowing greater operational flexibility, scalability and rapid response to grid requirements. Moreover, the storage system enhances grid stability while facilitating higher integration of renewable energy into the power network. By balancing fluctuations in solar and wind generation, the project supports a more resilient and efficient electricity grid.

Supporting Round-the-Clock Renewable Power

According to the company, the Bikaner facility powers one of the world’s first time-block Round-the-Clock (RTC) renewable energy arrangements for industrial consumers. The project demonstrates how advanced battery storage technology can convert intermittent renewable generation into dependable 24×7 clean power, helping industries meet their sustainability and energy reliability goals.

CEO Highlight

Akshay Hiranandani, Chief Executive Officer of Serentica Renewables, said battery energy storage systems will play a critical role in India’s next phase of clean energy growth. He noted that the commissioning of the first phase of the 1 GWh BESS marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to provide reliable, round-the-clock renewable energy to the industrial sector. By combining renewable power generation with advanced battery storage, Serentica is building a future-ready energy ecosystem that delivers sustainability, reliability and operational flexibility for its customers.

Building One of India’s Largest Battery Storage Portfolios

Founded in 2022, Serentica Renewables operates as an Independent Power Producer (IPP) focused on decarbonising hard-to-abate industries through Firm Dispatchable Renewable Energy (FDRE) solutions. The company has already achieved 3.2 GW of renewable energy capacity across multiple states, supported by a diversified portfolio of solar, wind, battery energy storage and advanced energy balancing technologies.

As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, Serentica plans to develop a 7 GWh battery storage pipeline over the next two years. The expansion is expected to create one of India’s largest battery energy storage portfolios dedicated to the commercial and industrial sector, reinforcing the company’s commitment to accelerating industrial decarbonisation and strengthening India’s clean energy transition.

The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to formalise Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 12 urban local bodies (ULBs) to establish a 15-MW waste-to-energy (WtE) plant at Ramchak-Bairiya. The project forms a key part of an integrated solid waste management strategy aimed at improving waste processing while generating clean energy. The proposed facility is expected to be completed within two years and is targeted to become operational by 2028.

PMC to Lead Multi-City Waste Management Project

To accelerate implementation, PMC convened a coordination meeting with representatives from the participating civic bodies. The meeting focused on finalising the roles, responsibilities and implementation framework for the project. The Urban Development and Housing Department has appointed Patna Municipal Corporation as the nodal agency responsible for executing the project and coordinating activities among all participating municipalities.

Thirteen Civic Bodies to Supply Solid Waste

The project will cover 13 civic bodies, including PMC, under a regional waste management framework. Participating municipal councils include Danapur Nizamat, Phulwarisharif, Masaurhi, Sampatchak, Fatuha, Khagaul, Bihta, Bakhtiyarpur, Maner and Naubatpur, while Punpun and Khusrupur Nagar Panchayats will also be part of the initiative. Under the proposed arrangement, each urban local body will collect and transport municipal solid waste from its respective jurisdiction to the Ramchak-Bairiya processing facility using its own logistics and resources.

Integrated Facility to Generate Power and Process Waste

The waste-to-energy project will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model using the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) framework. In addition to the 15-MW waste-to-energy plant, the integrated complex will include a bio-methanation plant, material Recovery Facilities (MRFs)and a composting plant. Together, these facilities will help maximise waste recovery, reduce landfill disposal and generate renewable energy from municipal solid waste.

Bihar Gains Momentum

Although Bihar has historically lagged behind in scientific waste management, the state is witnessing growing investments in renewable waste processing infrastructure. Recently, companies from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh expressed interest in investing nearly Rs 200 crore to establish new biogas plants in West Champaran district. Sistema.bio partnered with Forward7 Initiative of Saudi Arabia and Air Products to launch a programme that provides subsidised biodigesters to smallholder farmers in Begusarai district. The initiative aims to promote clean cooking energy, sustainable farming and better organic waste management.

Strengthening Bihar’s Circular Economy

As reported by iamrenew.com, with the proposed 15-MW waste-to-energy plant and a series of emerging biogas initiatives, Bihar is steadily moving towards a more sustainable waste management ecosystem. The projects are expected to reduce landfill dependence, improve urban sanitation, generate renewable electricity and support the state’s transition towards a circular economy.

INOX India Ltd (INOXCVA), manufacturer of cryogenic technology solutions, reported a strong start to FY27, posting a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs 61 crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2026. The company also recorded revenue of Rs 382 crore, reflecting an 8.3% year-on-year growth, while EBITDA increased 1.4% to Rs 90 crore.

Exports Drive Growth

Exports continued to be the company’s key growth engine during the quarter. Overseas business contributed 58% of total revenue, amounting to Rs 222 crore, supported by sustained international demand for INOX India’s cryogenic solutions. The company achieved its highest-ever quarterly order inflow of Rs 532 crore, taking its total order book to a record Rs 1,686 crore. Notably, export orders now account for more than Rs 1,140 crore, providing strong revenue visibility for the coming quarters.

Industrial Gases Division Secures Major Aerospace Orders

The Industrial Gases Division remained the largest contributor, accounting for 53% of total revenue during the quarter. The division secured a significant order from the space exploration sector for cryogenic storage tanks and also received additional repeat orders from the same customer. These contracts further strengthen INOX India’s position in the global aerospace cryogenic infrastructure market. In addition, the company received repeat orders for its disposable cylinder business and entered India’s rapidly growing semiconductor infrastructure segment by securing its first orders for cryogenic transportation tanks.

LNG Business Benefits from Lower Global LNG Prices

The LNG Division contributed 22% of quarterly revenue. During the quarter, declining global LNG prices improved the commercial viability of LNG as a transportation fuel. As a result, the company secured several orders for LNG fuelling stations. INOX India also began installation work for a mini-LNG terminal project in the Bahamas, creating opportunities for future satellite LNG station developments in the region.

Cryo Scientific Division Wins Prestigious CERN Order

The Cryo Scientific Division (CSD) accounted for 20% of the company’s revenue. The division strengthened its presence in the global scientific research sector by securing a prestigious order from CERN for cryogenic modules. The order further expands INOX India’s collaboration with internationally renowned scientific institutions, including ITER.

CEO Highlights Record Order Book and New Growth Opportunities

Deepak Acharya, Chief Executive Officer of INOX India Ltd, said the company delivered another milestone quarter with its highest-ever quarterly order inflow of approximately Rs 532 crore, taking the order book to a record Rs 1,686 crore. He noted that the export order book now exceeds Rs 1,140 crore, reflecting growing global acceptance of the company’s engineering capabilities and providing strong revenue visibility.

Acharya added that the quarter witnessed increased participation in several high-growth sectors through repeat aerospace orders, entry into India’s semiconductor ecosystem, prestigious contracts from CERN and ITER, and continued progress in LNG infrastructure projects.

He also highlighted that INOX India received the AS9100D aerospace quality certification, enabling the company to expand into onboard aerospace applications. Additionally, partnerships in semiconductor skill development and sustainable water solutions are expected to create new long-term growth opportunities.

Outlook Remains Positive

As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the company remains optimistic about sustaining its growth momentum. Backed by a record order book, diversified end-user industries, a growing international presence, and continued investments in technology and manufacturing capabilities, INOX India expects to deliver sustainable long-term growth while creating value for its stakeholders.

The union cabinet approved a ₹23,731 crore scheme to accelerate the production of Compressed Biogas (CBG) under the Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) initiative. The decision marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its bioenergy ecosystem, promote sustainable waste management, and advance the circular economy. By providing long-term policy support and financial incentives, the government aims to increase domestic CBG production while reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels.

Six Strategic Pillars to Drive CBG Production

The new scheme is built around six strategic pillars designed to create a stable and investment-friendly environment for the CBG industry. These include assured offtake of compressed biogas, price stability through an administered pricing mechanism, capital expenditure (Capex) support for new projects, development of pipeline infrastructure and credit guarantee support and a challenge fund to encourage innovation and technology development. Together, these measures will strengthen the CBG value chain, improve project viability, and encourage greater participation from private investors and technology providers.

Administered Pricing to Ensure Market Stability

To protect the sector from volatility in global fuel prices, the government has introduced an administered CBG pricing mechanism. As a result, producers and consumers will benefit from greater price certainty, making long-term investments more attractive and improving market confidence. Moreover, a predictable pricing framework is expected to accelerate the adoption of Compressed Biogas across industries, transportation, and city gas distribution networks.

Strengthening the GOBARdhan Mission

The scheme forms a key component of the government’s broader GOBARdhan programme, which promotes the conversion of organic, agricultural, and biodegradable waste into clean energy and other value-added products. By integrating financial support, infrastructure development, and assured market access, the initiative seeks to expand India’s biogas production capacity while creating a sustainable waste-to-energy ecosystem.

Expected Benefits

The ₹23,731 crore scheme is expected to deliver multiple environmental and economic benefits, including higher domestic production of compressed biogas, improved management of agricultural and organic waste, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, greater rural employment and income opportunities, increased investment in bioenergy infrastructure and lower dependence on imported and conventional fossil fuels. As reported by msn, the initiative reinforces India’s commitment to clean energy, energy security, and sustainable industrial development while creating a robust ecosystem for the future growth of the compressed biogas sector.

Lummus Technology, global provider of energy technology solutions, acquired key intellectual property (IP) assets and experienced personnel from Shell Catalysts & Technologies, strengthening its environmental solutions portfolio and expanding its capabilities in industrial emissions control. The acquisition enhances Lummus’ ability to deliver integrated technology solutions across refining, petrochemicals, waste processing and other industrial sectors while reinforcing its position in the global clean technology market.

Acquisition Expands Environmental Solutions Portfolio

The transaction includes intellectual property assets and technical expertise from Shell’s Environmental Catalysts and Systems (ECS) business, a specialised division focused on industrial emissions control and air pollution reduction technologies. By integrating these assets, Lummus gains access to an established global customer base, long-term service relationships and proven technologies that help industries reduce emissions and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, the acquired intellectual property complements Lummus’ existing process technology portfolio, enabling the company to offer comprehensive, end-to-end solutions across multiple industrial value chains.

Strengthening Emissions Control Capabilities

The ECS business has developed advanced environmental technologies that help industrial facilities reduce harmful atmospheric emissions. Among its flagship offerings are DeNOx systems, which enable customers to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions while maintaining operational efficiency and meeting increasingly stringent environmental compliance standards. According to the company, ECS technologies can achieve more than 98-99% emissions reduction for key pollutants in selected industrial applications, making them an effective solution for cleaner industrial operations.

Lummus Sees Strategic Growth Opportunity

Leon de Bruyn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lummus Technology, said the transaction immediately strengthens the company’s emissions control and environmental solutions business while deepening relationships across multiple industrial sectors. He noted that the existing ECS customer base will enhance Lummus’ ability to support customers throughout the lifecycle of their assets. He also acknowledged the company’s long-standing partnership with Shell Catalysts & Technologies, describing it as the foundation for the transaction. De Bruyn added that Lummus looks forward to welcoming the ECS team and building on its expertise to meet the evolving needs of the global energy and industrial markets.

Shell Confident of Future Growth Under Lummus

Elise H. Nowee, President of Shell Catalysts & Technologies, said the divestment aligns with Shell’s strategy of positioning the ECS business for continued growth. She highlighted that the business has supported customers for many years by helping them meet increasingly strict emissions standards. Given Shell’s long-standing relationship with Lummus in specialised catalyst technologies, she expressed confidence that Lummus is well positioned to expand the business, scale its offerings and continue delivering value to customers.

Seamless Customer Transition Planned

As part of the agreement, Shell Catalysts & Technologies will continue supporting existing ECS customers during a transition period to ensure uninterrupted product supply, technical assistance and customer service. The phased transition is expected to provide continuity while enabling Lummus to fully integrate the business into its growing environmental technology portfolio.

Expanding Sustainable Industrial Solutions

The acquisition marks another strategic step in Lummus Technology’s expansion into sustainable industrial technologies. As per the press release, by combining advanced emissions control systems with its existing process technologies, the company is strengthening its ability to help customers improve environmental performance, meet tightening regulatory requirements and accelerate the transition toward cleaner industrial operations.

ONGC Videsh Ltd. (OVL), the overseas investment arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), is seeking to assume operatorship of two shallow onshore oil blocks in Venezuela following the receipt of a licence from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). The licence gives the company greater operational flexibility in the South American nation, positioning Venezuela as a key focus area in ONGC Videsh’s international upstream growth strategy.

Company Eyes Greater Operational Control

Anupam Agarwal, Chief Financial Officer of ONGC, said the OFAC licence provides ONGC Videsh with “full freedom” to operate in Venezuela. The company currently holds a 40% stake in the San Cristobal oil field and an 11% stake in the Carabobo-1 block. It is now working to take over operatorship of these projects from Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA). According to Agarwal, the company expects to finalise new agreements with Venezuelan authorities and its joint venture partners to facilitate the transition.

Technical Expertise Supports Expansion

ONGC Videsh believes it is well-positioned to operate the Venezuelan assets, as the two onshore projects share geological and operational characteristics with the company’s oilfields in Gujarat, India. This experience is expected to enable the company to efficiently manage production and optimise field performance. “We are very upbeat for Venezuela and believe positive developments will emerge soon,” Agarwal said, expressing confidence in the company’s expansion plans.

Venezuela Opens Oil Sector to Private Operators

The company’s plans coincide with major policy reforms in Venezuela’s oil industry. Last month, the country’s interim government introduced new oil regulations that significantly reduce the long-standing dominance of PDVSA. The reforms allow private companies to participate across the entire oil and gas value chain, including exploration, production, transportation, refining and fuel retailing. In addition, the new framework introduces a risk-based fiscal regime, with taxation linked to the complexity and risk profile of individual oil assets, ranging from mature onshore fields to offshore developments.

Supporting India’s Energy Security

India, the world’s third-largest crude oil consumer, continues to diversify its energy imports while expanding overseas upstream investments to strengthen long-term energy security. Against this backdrop, ONGC Videsh’s proposed expansion in Venezuela aligns with India’s strategy to secure stable crude oil supplies, reduce dependence on traditional suppliers in the Middle East, and mitigate the impact of global oil price volatility. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, The company is currently engaged in discussions with Venezuelan authorities and its joint venture partners to advance investment plans and complete the transfer of operatorship for the two oil blocks.

Researchers at IIT Roorkee have developed an acid-resistant magnetic nanocomposite capable of recovering uranium and rare earth elements (REEs) from contaminated water. The innovative material maintains high performance even under highly acidic conditions, making it particularly suitable for treating mining wastewater and industrial effluents. The breakthrough offers a promising solution for resource recovery while supporting environmental remediation.

Silica Shield Enhances Durability

The research team engineered the nanocomposite with a protective silica coating that shields the active magnetic material from corrosion in acidic environments. As a result, the nanocomposite remains stable and effective even in harsh mining wastewater conditions, where conventional materials often experience rapid degradation.

High Recovery Efficiency Demonstrated

Laboratory tests demonstrated that the nanocomposite can recover up to 370 grams of uranium and rare earth elements per kilogram of nanomaterial, highlighting its high extraction efficiency. Moreover, the material exhibits different recovery characteristics depending on the water chemistry. Under near-neutral pH conditions, it efficiently captures both uranium and rare earth elements. However, in highly acidic environments, the nanocomposite becomes more selective for uranium recovery, enhancing its suitability for targeted extraction applications.

Potential for Mining and Environmental Applications

The newly developed nanocomposite has significant potential for applications in mining wastewater treatment, resource recovery, and environmental cleanup. By enabling the efficient extraction of valuable metals from contaminated water, the technology could help improve the sustainability of mining operations while reducing environmental impact.

Research Supported by the Department of Atomic Energy

The project received funding from the Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences (BRNS) under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). As reported by discoveryalert.com, the research underscores the growing role of advanced nanomaterials in developing innovative technologies for nuclear resource recovery and sustainable environmental management.

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to identify potential carbon dioxide (CO₂) sources across the country for the production of Green Urea and Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO)-compliant Green Methanol. The initiative forms part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission and aims to establish a reliable CO₂ supply chain to support India’s growing green chemicals and clean fuels sector.

Industry Inputs Sought on CO₂ Availability

Through the EOI, SECI is seeking detailed inputs from industry stakeholders on the availability, quality, location, logistics, and transportation of CO₂ sources. In addition, the exercise will help assess existing infrastructure requirements and identify gaps that must be addressed to enable large-scale production of green urea and green methanol.

Multiple CO₂ Sources Under Evaluation

The EOI covers a wide range of CO₂ sources, including:

Biogenic CO₂

Direct Air Capture (DAC)

Industrial CO₂ emissions

By evaluating multiple feedstock options, SECI aims to develop a sustainable and diversified CO₂ ecosystem capable of supporting future green hydrogen-based manufacturing projects.

Focus on Regulatory Compliance and Export Readiness

SECI will also assess regulatory and certification requirements, particularly for RFNBO-compliant Green Methanol intended for international markets. Ensuring compliance with global sustainability standards is expected to enhance the export competitiveness of Indian green methanol while supporting the country’s clean energy and decarbonisation goals.

Supporting India’s Green Chemicals Ecosystem

The initiative represents an important step towards building an integrated value chain for green hydrogen derivatives, including green urea and green methanol. As reported by Einfews, by mapping CO₂ resources and infrastructure needs, SECI aims to facilitate future investments, strengthen domestic production, and accelerate India’s transition to a low-carbon industrial economy.

Karnataka attracted ₹300 crore in new manufacturing investments from Cipla and Rocket India, reinforcing the state’s position as a preferred destination for pharmaceutical and food processing industries. The investment announcements were made during the Karnataka government’s investment roadshow in Mumbai, which aimed to attract new industrial projects and strengthen the state’s manufacturing ecosystem.

Cipla to Expand Bengaluru Manufacturing Facility

Pharmaceutical major Cipla will invest ₹200 crore to expand production capacity at its manufacturing facility in Bommasandra, Bengaluru. The expansion is expected to enhance the plant’s manufacturing capabilities, with the upgraded facility scheduled to begin operations later this year. The investment reflects Cipla’s continued focus on increasing production capacity to meet growing market demand.

Rocket India Boosts Food Processing Capacity

Plant-based protein manufacturer Rocket India will invest ₹100 crore to expand its manufacturing unit in Gokak, Belagavi district. The expansion will significantly increase the company’s food processing capacity while supporting the growing demand for plant-based protein products. Additionally, the project is expected to contribute to local industrial development and create new employment opportunities.

Karnataka Engages with Global Investors

Alongside the confirmed investments, the Karnataka government held discussions with several leading companies to explore future investment opportunities across high-growth sectors. nvestment firm Blackstone expressed interest in projects related to data centres, renewable energy, and fibre-optic infrastructure. Meanwhile, a leading construction materials and glass manufacturer is evaluating plans to expand its manufacturing operations in the state.

Manufacturing Push to Strengthen Industrial Growth

The latest investment commitments are expected to accelerate Karnataka’s industrial growth by expanding manufacturing capacity across pharmaceuticals, food processing, and emerging infrastructure sectors. As reported by projectstoday.ai, these projects are likely to attract additional domestic and international investments, reinforcing Karnataka’s reputation as one of India’s leading manufacturing and investment destinations.

The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIRs) in Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha have collectively attracted nearly ₹3.5 lakh crore in investments, significantly strengthening India’s chemical and petrochemical manufacturing ecosystem. The government shared this information in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, highlighting the growing role of PCPIRs in promoting industrial development, expanding manufacturing capacity, and creating employment.

Investment Crosses ₹3.49 Lakh Crore

Minister of state for chemicals and fertilisers Anupriya Patel stated that the three operational PCPIRs have attracted a cumulative investment of ₹3,49,192 crore. As a result, these investment regions have facilitated the establishment of 2,246 industrial units, while generating employment for 3,71,263 people. The large-scale investments have also contributed to the creation of substantial new manufacturing capacity across the chemical and petrochemical sectors.

PCPIR Locations

The three operational PCPIRs are located at:

Dahej, Gujarat

Visakhapatnam–Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh

Paradeep, Odisha

These integrated industrial regions continue to serve as key hubs for investments in petroleum, chemicals, and petrochemicals.

Government Reviews Infrastructure Development

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers continues to monitor infrastructure development across the three PCPIRs through periodic review meetings with the governments of Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. According to the minister, the ministry regularly evaluates the progress of these projects to ensure that infrastructure development keeps pace with industrial expansion.

State Governments Responsible for Infrastructure

Under the PCPIR Policy, the respective state governments are responsible for developing and providing the necessary infrastructure within their PCPIR regions. This includes creating an enabling industrial ecosystem that supports manufacturing investments and facilitates the growth of the chemical and petrochemical industries. As reported by money.rediff.com, he continued development of these infrastructure facilities is expected to further enhance India’s competitiveness as a global destination for chemical and petrochemical manufacturing.