India is making transformative strides in the energy sector to meet increasing demand and strengthen its global position. With ambitious plans to enhance refinery capacity and embrace sustainable energy solutions, the country is setting new benchmarks in innovation and leadership.
Boosting Refinery Capacity for a Brighter Future
India plans to increase its refinery capacity from 256.8 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) in 2024 to a remarkable 310 MMTPA by 2028. This expansion, highlighted by Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri during the FIPI Oil and Gas Awards 2023, is designed to meet both domestic and international energy demands. The initiative aims to strengthen the nation’s energy security while boosting infrastructure capabilities.
Ethanol Blending: Paving the Way for Sustainability
A key part of India’s sustainability drive is achieving 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025. This initiative supports the global shift towards greener energy solutions by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Ethanol blending also benefits Indian farmers by utilizing surplus sugarcane and grains, ensuring a positive economic impact alongside environmental benefits.
Expanding Exploration Acreage for Energy Security
India’s exploration acreage is set to expand by 16% by 2025, with an ambitious target of covering 1 million square kilometers by 2030. This expansion reflects the government’s focus on maximizing domestic resource utilization, reducing energy imports, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
LPG Affordability: Supporting Every Household
The affordability of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) remains a top priority under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). Economically weaker households pay as little as ₹6 per day for cylinder refills, while non-PMUY households pay just ₹14 per day. This initiative has improved access to clean cooking fuel for millions, particularly in rural areas, significantly enhancing quality of life.
City Gas Distribution: A Landmark Achievement
India’s City Gas Distribution (CGD) coverage has grown exponentially, from just 5.5% in 2014 to an expected 100% by 2024. This development ensures that both urban and rural households gain access to cleaner and more affordable energy, supporting the government’s sustainable urbanization goals.
India’s Thriving Start-up Ecosystem
The country’s energy advancements are complemented by a vibrant start-up ecosystem. In the last five years, over 1,400 deep-tech patents have been filed, showcasing India’s innovation potential. With over 1 lakh start-ups and 120 unicorns, India is now the third-largest start-up ecosystem globally. These start-ups are driving technology-driven solutions in energy and other critical sectors.
India Energy Week 2025: A Platform for Collaboration
The upcoming India Energy Week 2025 will spotlight the nation’s progress in energy innovation, sustainability, and exploration. This landmark event is expected to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to discuss the future of energy in India and beyond.
Published: Nov.27, @Aran
