Energy & Petroleum News Today

Bitumen prices in India remain firm as Brent crude trades above $108/bbl and refinery prices stay elevated across key locations. Supply concerns linked to Middle East disruptions and rising infrastructure demand continue to support the market. Government interventions and refinery expansions are expected to influence bitumen availability and pricing in the coming months.

Tamil Nadu's power network is upgrading through a TNPDCL-IIT Madras partnership. This aims to integrate renewable energy, enhance reliability with AI/ML, and improve service delivery, supporting urban growth and sustainable development across the state.

India's 2026 energy crisis, post-Iran war, caused fuel shortages, Rs 7,000 gas cylinders, and closures. Government policies deepened import dependence (88% crude oil, 51% gas), raising vulnerability.

Kia Syros EV targets India's ₹15-20 lakh segment with 500 km+ range, lifetime battery warranty, and premium features. Expected to launch around 2026, it aims to redefine mass-market EV confidence.

India added 29 GW of RE in H1, with solar surging 43% to 26 GW, driven by rooftop installations. Wind additions declined. Cumulative RE reached 288 GW, on track for 500 GW non-fossil by 2030.

Neo Performance Materials eyes India for a rare earth magnet manufacturing base, discussing with states like Tamil Nadu and Telangana. This is driven by India's ₹7,280 crore scheme to establish 6,000 metric tons/annum integrated REPM production.

India adeptly navigated Covid-19 and a 2026 Middle East oil shock. It cut fuel excise by ₹10/litre (₹1 lakh crore hit), kept cooking gas at ₹950, reconfigured refineries in 7 days, and diversified oil imports from 25 to 40+ nations.

Nitin Gadkari announced hydrogen as transport's future, with trials on 10 routes. India's auto industry grew to Rs 22 lakh crore, 3rd globally, creating 4.5 crore jobs. Efforts focus on safety, reducing EV charging costs, and boosting bus production.

An electricity meter reader in Odisha was booked for using AI tools to alter meter reading records, causing a ₹1.74 lakh financial loss to TPSODL. The fraud was detected during scrutiny.

India and France deepened cooperation at their July 4, 2026 Economic and Financial Dialogue. Discussions covered critical minerals, infrastructure, cross-investments, and multilateral coordination (G20, G7, Paris Club). They aim for closer ties in supply chains, clean energy, and infrastructure financing by 2027.