Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a government-owned oil and gas company, has announced plans to use its state-wide network of fuel stations to support charging of electric vehicles. Around 7,000 traditional retail shops will be converted into energy stations that will offer a variety of fuelling alternatives, including gasoline, diesel, and flexi fuels, as well as electric vehicle (EV) charging, compressed natural gas, and hydrogen.
As per a company statement, it plans to expand into new business categories in order to achieve long-term success. Electric mobility, biofuels, petrochemicals, gas, consumer retail, and digital transformation are areas where the corporation is looking for new prospects. Further, BPCL will be investing more than Rs 1 trillion. The investment will help BPCL prepare for the future where conventional fuels and zero-carbon mobility in the form of EVs and hydrogen will co-exist. Indian oil companies, both upstream and downstream, including state-owned firms, are investing in clean energy solutions and expanding renewable energy capacity. Diversification is in line with global efforts by businesses to lessen their carbon footprint.
In September 2021, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has floated a tender in two categories to empanel vendors to develop solar projects at its locations and retail outlets across India. The tender specifies projects under two categories; under Category-I, individual solar projects of capacities up to 50 kW based in specific regions will be developed. Under Category-II, individual solar project capacity of above 50 kW and up to 500 kW will be developed across India. The bid submission deadline is October 16, 2021.
