Energy

Reliance Industries Ltd. and its global partner BP are facing a massive $30 billion claim linked to a long-running dispute over the KG-D6 gas block in India’s Krishna-Godavari Basin. The case, rooted in allegations surrounding gas migration and production rights, has resurfaced as one of the most consequential energy-sector litigations involving Indian corporate interests. Beyond its immediate financial implications, the dispute underscores persistent regulatory uncertainty in India’s upstream oil and gas sector.

THINK Gas has announced a reduction in compressed natural gas (CNG) prices after the implementation of a revised tariff structure, offering relief to consumers amid fluctuating energy costs. The price cut reflects adjustments in regulatory and cost components that influence retail gas pricing. For households, commercial vehicle operators and fleet owners, the move is expected to lower operating expenses and reinforce the economic appeal of cleaner fuels.

Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) have announced an open offer to acquire a controlling stake in Castrol India, signaling a strategic push into the Indian lubricants market. The move reflects growing investor confidence in India’s industrial and automotive sectors, driven by robust demand for lubricants and value-added petroleum products. Analysts suggest that this acquisition could enhance operational synergies, improve market positioning, and unlock shareholder value.

The Andhra Pradesh government has granted a no-objection certificate (NOC) to Vedanta Oil & Gas, authorizing the company to proceed with its drilling operations in the state. This approval underscores the state’s commitment to facilitating energy investments and boosting local economic growth. Vedanta’s project is expected to enhance hydrocarbon exploration capabilities, generate employment, and contribute significantly to regional revenue.

BP is evaluating a potential sale of its stake in lubricant brand Castrol, a move that underscores the energy major’s broader effort to reshape its portfolio amid shifting industry dynamics. The review reflects BP’s focus on capital discipline and reallocation toward higher-growth and lower-carbon opportunities. Castrol, a globally recognized brand with steady cash flows, remains a valuable asset, making any divestment decision strategically significant.

Gujarat is sharpening its position as a national leader in clean energy by rolling out an ambitious policy framework focused on renewable power and green hydrogen. The state aims to attract large-scale private investment, expand domestic manufacturing and position itself as a global hub for low-carbon energy. Leveraging its long coastline, strong industrial base and policy continuity, Gujarat is targeting accelerated capacity addition across solar and wind, alongside early-mover advantages in green hydrogen production.

India’s petrol pump network has crossed a significant milestone, surpassing 1 lakh outlets nationwide after doubling over the past decade. The rapid expansion reflects rising fuel demand, improved road infrastructure and policy reforms that have encouraged wider private and public sector participation. Growth has been particularly strong in rural and semi-urban areas, supporting economic activity and improving last-mile energy access.

HPCL–Mittal Energy Ltd. (HMEL) has announced an investment of Rs 2,600 crore to expand operations at its Bathinda refinery, underscoring a renewed focus on capacity enhancement and fuel security. The expansion is aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening product flexibility, and meeting evolving domestic energy demand. The move aligns with India’s broader strategy to modernize refining infrastructure while balancing energy transition goals.

Adani Clean Energy has marked significant progress across its renewable portfolio, achieving new milestones in solar and wind power while advancing its green hydrogen ambitions. The developments highlight the group’s expanding role in India’s clean energy transition and its push toward building an integrated renewable ecosystem. With large-scale capacity additions and investments in emerging technologies, the company is positioning itself at the intersection of sustainability and energy security.

ONGC Green Limited, the renewable energy arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Management Nagpur to promote research and innovation in the clean energy sector. The collaboration aims to bridge academic expertise and industry experience to support India’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions. By focusing on research, policy analysis, and capacity building, the initiative is expected to contribute to more informed decision-making in renewable energy investments and project execution.