Month: February 2025

Karnataka is set to expand its transmission capacity to around 60-65 GW in the next five years, requiring an investment of ₹60,000 crore. The state will cover 40% of the investment, while competitive bidding will handle the rest. This expansion aims to address issues with renewable energy intermittencies and transmission congestion.

Freight rates to ship Urals crude from Baltic ports to India increased by around 20% in February, resulting in costs up to $8 million per voyage due to U.S. sanctions and rising exports. Higher freight costs mean Russian exporters earn less for oil as they spend more on shipping.

NTPC is in discussions with foreign firms, including those from Russia and the U.S., for constructing small nuclear reactors. These small modular reactors can be scaled up to meet demand. NTPC intends to start its first nuclear project in Rajasthan soon and seeks to boost India’s nuclear capacity to reduce its carbon footprint.

India’s goal to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 faces challenges due to high global LNG prices. Lower gas prices are essential for making gas-fired electricity generation competitive, which is crucial for boosting demand. Limited infrastructure and high logistical costs further constrain natural gas consumption.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) signed a one-year strategic contract with TotalEnergies Trading Asia for the supply of Middle Eastern crude oil from April 2025 to March 2026. The agreement ensures a steady and competitive supply for BPCL’s refineries, enhancing energy security and diversifying its crude sourcing portfolio.

Oil prices dropped by 1% on Thursday, influenced by potential peace talks between Russia and Ukraine and rising crude inventories in the U.S. Brent futures and WTI crude saw significant declines. Analysts attribute the decrease to increased expectations of sufficient supply and higher U.S. crude stocks.

Adani Total has not yet conducted feasibility studies for expanding its LNG terminal in Dhamra. The terminal’s utilisation rate increased from 25% to about 50% in 2024. Expansion is dependent on demand, which could grow with India’s aim to double natural gas usage in its energy mix by 2030.

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has entered into a 14-year deal, valued at USD 7-9 billion, with ADNOC Gas from UAE for the long-term import of LNG, beginning in 2026. This aligns with India’s goal to increase the share of gas in its primary energy mix to 15% by 2030.

India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, seeks Russian crude oil compliant with U.S. sanctions. Despite buying discounted seaborne oil from Russia, India’s refiners are cautious due to exposure to the U.S. financial system. Indian officials emphasize that suppliers must ensure compliance with their internal regulations to avoid operational challenges and risks associated with secondary sanctions.

Adani Green Energy announced its decision to withdraw from two planned wind power projects in Sri Lanka. The decision was made after the Sri Lankan government suggested renegotiating the project proposal terms. The company emphasized its respect for Sri Lanka’s sovereign rights. The projects were initially valued at $1 billion.