Is the Government Boosting Natural Gas in India's Energy Mix?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Indian government is advancing its energy landscape by integrating natural gas into the mix. With a commitment to cleaner energy sources and enhanced infrastructure, the goal is to make affordable energy accessible to all households. Join the movement towards a sustainable future!
Key Takeaways
- Government aims to raise natural gas share in energy mix beyond 15%
- Focus on piped natural gas (PNG) and renewable energy integration
- Transition from LPG to PNG for households
- City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector is pivotal for cleaner air
- India as the fourth-largest LNG importer with growth potential
New Delhi, Sep 18 (NationPress) The government is set to enhance the use of piped natural gas (PNG), working alongside renewable energy sources through gas-powered generation, and exploring opportunities in Compressed Bio Gas (CBG), hydrogen, and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) mobility.
At the ASSOCHAM India Gas Infrastructure Conference, Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) Secretary Anjan Kumar Mishra stated: "With industry collaboration and supportive policies, we can increase the contribution of natural gas to India’s energy mix beyond 15 percent, making clean and affordable energy accessible to every household.”
He praised the sector’s accomplishments in enhancing the ease of doing business, particularly the transition from LPG to PNG for households, and acknowledged the progress made in rural infrastructure while emphasizing the necessity of expanding access and increasing power generation through natural gas. A unified commitment is essential to develop a resilient and future-ready gas infrastructure that aligns with India’s goals for sustainable development and carbon neutrality, he added.
Mishra highlighted that in recent years, the government has set the groundwork by authorizing over 300 geographical areas, improving rural accessibility, and facilitating business operations.
Akhil Mehrotra, Co-Chairman of the ASSOCHAM Task Force on Hydrocarbons & MD of Pipeline Infrastructure Limited, stressed the urgency for a quicker rollout of city gas networks, accompanied by a strong gas-to-power strategy. He advocated for greater integration of renewables, enhanced energy storage solutions, and a robust mobility framework to encourage adoption.
Mohit Bhatia, Director - Commercial at Indraprastha Gas Ltd, pointed out that the nation’s aim of achieving a 15 percent share of natural gas in the energy mix by 2030 is not just a goal, but a collective mission grounded in actionable steps.
He highlighted the transformative impact of the City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector, noting that every new pipeline, CNG station, and household connection contributes to cleaner air, healthier communities, and globally competitive industries.
Bhatia also discussed the strengthening of the global LNG market, where India stands as the fourth-largest importer, and elaborated on how expanding regasification capacity, innovative solutions such as SSLNG hubs, and transparent gas exchanges will define the future. He emphasized that natural gas serves as a bridge fuel for decarbonization, playing a crucial role in reducing industrial emissions, modernizing logistics, and balancing renewable energy.
Point of View
The commitment to increasing the share of natural gas in India's energy mix is a crucial step towards achieving sustainability and energy security. Promoting piped natural gas and transitioning to cleaner energy sources not only supports economic growth but also addresses environmental concerns effectively. The government's proactive policies and industry collaboration are essential for this transition.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the government's plan for natural gas in India?
The government aims to significantly increase the share of natural gas in India's energy mix to over 15 percent, enhancing its accessibility through piped natural gas (PNG) and supporting renewable energy sources.
How does natural gas contribute to cleaner energy?
Natural gas serves as a bridge fuel for decarbonization, reducing industrial emissions while facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources.
What role does the City Gas Distribution sector play?
The City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector is crucial for transforming the energy landscape, providing cleaner air and healthier communities through expanded natural gas access.
What are the expected benefits of increased natural gas use?
Increasing the use of natural gas is expected to enhance energy security, promote economic growth, and contribute to carbon neutrality goals.
How is India positioned in the global LNG market?
India has emerged as the fourth-largest importer of LNG, poised to further strengthen its position with expanded regasification capacities and innovative solutions.
