Beauty is what you buy

To ensure adequate electricity supply this summer, when peak demand could hit 270 GW, the power ministry is implementing a multi-faceted strategy, including maximizing coal and hydropower utilization. Measures may extend mandates for imported coal and gas-based plants. Peak demand could surpass last year’s 250 GW due to expected above-normal temperatures from March to May.

The Delhi High Court declined to stay an order setting aside a 2019 arbitral award requiring NTPC Ltd to pay Rs 1,891 crore to Jindal ITF for alleged wrongful termination of a coal transportation agreement. The court also did not prevent NTPC from invoking bank guarantees by Jindal ITF, pending the final disposal of the appeal.

Reliance Industries Ltd. has halted further purchases of Venezuelan crude following US President Donald Trump’s 25% tariff on nations buying Venezuelan oil. The company is receiving a final shipment of Merey crude already en route but will pause additional buying. Other Indian refiners may pivot to more accessible Russian oil, while China, the largest buyer, might also temporarily halt purchases.

Essar Energy Transition’s EET Fuels has signed agreements to supply jet fuel to two more major UK airports, expanding its network to nine UK airports. This move supports fuel security and advances its low-carbon strategy. The firm, operating from Stanlow refinery, significantly contributes to aviation fuel supply, highlighting its role in the UK’s energy transition journey.

Experts warn that India should prepare for a 9-10% increase in peak electricity demand this summer due to rising temperatures and more heatwaves. Electricity consumption, particularly from households, has grown rapidly, driven by economic growth and a rising need for cooling. Increased air conditioner sales and energy inefficiency raise concerns about future energy demand and climate impact.

India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corp. is diversifying into refining, petrochemicals, LNG trading, and renewable energy to mitigate risks from volatile oil prices. The company plans to increase its renewable capacity to 10 gigawatts by 2030 and is exploring opportunities in oil-to-chemicals.

Kalpataru Projects International Limited secured orders worth Rs 2,366 crore in both domestic and international markets. These new orders have pushed their FY25 order intake to Rs 24,850 crore, providing strong visibility for future growth, particularly in the Transmission and Distribution and Buildings and Factories sectors.

Oil Import Tariffs: US President Donald Trump said they will impose 25% tariff on oil and gas imports targeting countries buying Venezuelan crude from April 2. The decision could impact India’s energy sector significantly, as it relies heavily on Venezuelan oil. Indian refiners might need to look for alternatives, including increased Russian oil imports, to offset added costs.

Indian refiners are expected to reduce spot crude tenders as Russian oil supplies return to normal levels. State-owned and private refiners have secured multiple discounted Russian shipments for April, easing supply concerns despite earlier disruptions caused by US sanctions.

Gujarat State Petronet Ltd has commissioned a natural gas pipeline connecting the Chhara LNG terminal with the gas grid. The 18 million standard cubic metres per day pipeline, costing Rs 650 crore, runs close to the Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary and enhances natural gas availability in line with India’s energy mix goals.