Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), India's largest oil refiner, has announced ambitious plans to increase its refining capacity and efficiency. The company will commission a hydrocracker unit and expand capacity at its Gujarat refinery, while also planning maintenance for its Panipat refinery.
Key Highlights:
Gujarat Refinery Expansion:
IOC is planning to increase the capacity of its Gujarat refinery from 13.7 million tonnes per year (MTPA) to 18 MTPA in line with its long-term plan to address increasing domestic petroleum product demand.
IOC's 3 MTPA crude processing unit at the Gujarat refinery will be closed mid-April to July 2025 for revamp and upgradation to 7.3 MTPA.
Also, IOC will begin operations of a hydrocracker unit at the Gujarat refinery by early May 2025, after a 90-day shutdown for revamping. This new unit will enhance the production of cleaner fuels such as diesel and jet fuel.
Panipat Refinery Maintenance
IOC also made announcements to close the diesel hydrotreater unit at its Panipat refinery for 40 days of maintenance from mid-July 2025. The hydrotreater is a key unit for the production of low-sulfur diesel in accordance with environmental regulations.
Strategic Significance:
These expansions are in line with IOC's focus on increasing capacity, fuel quality, and aiding India's energy self-reliance objectives.
Maintenance schedules are planned to provide the least disruption to fuel supply while maximizing long-term operating efficiency.
Leadership Insights:
According to an IOC spokesperson:
"Our refinery upgrade and maintenance plans demonstrate our commitment to India's increasing energy demand while embracing sustainable practices."
Outlook:
Through these plans, Indian Oil is poised to reinforce its leadership in India's refining industry and make a big contribution to the country's energy infrastructure.
Conclusion:
Indian Oil Corporation's strategic refinery expansions highlight its forward-looking attitude towards capacity augmentation and environmental stewardship.
Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard; April 3, 2025