NTPC Ltd is set to expand its coal-based power capacity to 30 GW by FY32, exceeding its previous goal, to meet rising base load demand. The company plans to commission approximately 3 GW of thermal power this fiscal year and aims to add 5 GW of renewable energy in FY26.

GAIL India Ltd. has issued a tender to acquire up to a 26% stake in a US liquefied natural gas project, coupled with a 15-year gas import agreement. This move supports India’s efforts to reduce its trade surplus with the US. GAIL seeks 1 million metric tons per year of LNG from the US plant, starting by 2029-2030.

Maharashtra has partnered with Russia’s ROSATOM to develop a Small Modular Reactor using thorium fuel. The MoU, signed in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, aims to commercialize thorium reactors adhering to AERB safety standards and establish a local assembly line under the ‘Make in Maharashtra’ initiative.

NTPC Group has increased its thermal capacity addition target to 30,000 MW by 2031-32, up from the earlier plan of 26,000 MW by 2030-31. The company aims to add 3,580 MW of thermal capacity in FY26 and is also focusing on expanding its renewable energy portfolio, targeting 60 GW by 2032, alongside boosting coal production from its captive mines.

Despite US President Trump’s efforts to boost U.S. oil production, the industry faces potential output cuts and job losses. Increased OPEC output and tariffs have weakened demand, causing U.S. crude futures to plummet. Companies struggle to drill profitably below $65 a barrel, and rising input costs further discourage drilling, potentially benefiting OPEC and impacting rig counts.

Mauritius is seeking India’s technical expertise and collaboration to meet its rising power needs and transition to cleaner energy sources. Facing high electricity demand, Mauritius has requested assistance in energy planning, regulatory development, and renewable energy projects. India is expected to send experts to aid Mauritius in achieving its goal of generating 60% of electricity from renewables by 2030.

The US has imposed sanctions on Jugwinder Singh Brar, an Indian national based in the UAE, and two India-based entities for their involvement in Iran’s “shadow fleet.” Brar’s companies, including Global Tankers and B and P Solutions, are accused of shipping Iranian oil on behalf of NIOC and the Iranian military, utilizing ship-to-ship transfers and falsifying documents to evade sanctions.