Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), a subsidiary of Oil India Limited (OIL), is planning to establish a aviation fuel production plant in Odisha. Speaking to the media, NRL Chairman and OIL CMD Ranjit Rath stated that the proposed plant, with a capacity of 200 KTPA (kilo-tonnes per annum), is part of the company’s broader strategy to achieve net zero emissions.
“Our net zero target is set for 2040, and to achieve this, we are following a dual approach, focusing on reducing emissions while also pursuing value-added opportunities,” Rath explained.
He further noted that with an annual growth rate of 7%, the company sees substantial aviation fuel as a promising business model. A detailed project report (DPR) is currently being prepared. Although the facility is planned for a coastal area and could offer export potential in the future, the company expects domestic demand to be sufficient.
Managing Director of NRL, B.J. Phukan, stated that the upcoming bio-refinery in Assam, expected to be operational this year, will use bamboo dust to produce activated carbon. “We are collaborating with IIT Guwahati on biolyser technology. Activated carbon is in high demand, especially in the cosmetics industry and even in toothpaste,” Phukan said.
In addition, NRL is expanding its refining capacity from 3 to 9 MMTPA and constructing a 1,635 km crude oil pipeline from Paradip Port in Odisha to Numaligarh in Assam.
The Assam Bio Ethanol Private Limited, where NRL holds a major stake, is also expected to begin commercial production by mid-year.
