Business

GAIL Celebrates Foundation Day, Reaffirms Commitment to India’s Energy Future


GAIL (India) Limited celebrated its Foundation Day at the Corporate Office, with employees across the country joining virtually through video conferencing. The occasion was graced by the presence of CMD Shri Sandeep Kumar Gupta, who addressed employees and highlighted the company’s remarkable progress over the past year.

Also present were Shri R. K. Jain (Director, Finance), Shri Deepak Gupta (Director, Projects), Shri Ayush Gupta (Director, HR), Shri Sanjay Kumar (Director, Marketing), and Shri R. K. Singhal (Director, BD), along with senior officials, Executive Directors, and employees.

Major Milestones Highlighted

  • Record Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹11,312 crore
  • Expansion to 16,420 km cross-country pipeline network
  • Establishment of India’s first gas-based integrated petrochemical complex
  • NIL CAG report for the 16th consecutive year
  • Successful launch of SAP S4-HANA for digital transformation

Shri Gupta emphasized GAIL’s pivotal role in strengthening natural gas transmission across the nation and reaffirmed its mission to shape the energy landscape of a vibrant New India. He underlined the company’s commitment to society, sustainability, and technological progress, ensuring that GAIL continues as a strong partner in national energy security and self-reliance.

The celebrations began with a cake-cutting ceremony, followed by the CMD’s address and a felicitation program honoring long-serving employees.

With strong leadership and a focus on innovation, GAIL continues to reinforce its position as a driving force in India’s energy sector, delivering progress, sustainability, and growth for the nation.

Business

Workshop on Renewable Energy Storage: Challenges and Solutions – GCCI & IEI Goa


The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with The Institution of Engineers (India) Goa State Centre, is proud to host a one-day workshop titled “Renewable Energy Storage: Challenges and Solutions”, on Saturday, 9th August 2025, from 3:00 PM onwards, at the prestigious Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, Panaji–Goa.

As the world rapidly shifts toward renewable energy, effective storage solutions have become crucial. This workshop will bring together top minds from the renewable energy sector to discuss the current challenges in integrating wind and solar power into the grid, tackling grid stability, and designing systems that meet peak power demand efficiently.

A major highlight of the event will be the exclusive unveiling of a revolutionary energy storage device, introduced by none other than Mr. Alex Hunter, CEO and Founder of Sherwood Power, UK. Known for his innovative contributions to the green energy space, Mr. Hunter’s session will explore how the device can transform the way industries and utilities manage energy – with potential to cut operational costs and enhance energy reliability.

This workshop is designed for engineers, business leaders, energy professionals, sustainability enthusiasts, and policymakers looking to stay ahead of the curve in energy technology.

Key Details:

  • Title: Renewable Energy Storage: Challenges and Solutions
  • Date: 9th August 2025
  • Time: 3:00 PM onwards
  • Venue: Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, GCCI, Panaji–Goa
  • Organized by: GCCI in association with IEI Goa State Centre

Registration:
Prior registration is mandatory. Interested participants may contact the offices of GCCI or IEI Goa to reserve their spot.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with trailblazers in the energy domain and discover actionable solutions for a sustainable future.

Automobiles

UP Leads the Charge: First State to Subsidize Upstream Infra for EV Charging Stations


In a landmark move set to boost electric mobility, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the first Indian state to offer subsidies specifically for upstream infrastructure in EV charging stations. This forward-looking policy is designed to overcome one of the key bottlenecks in EV infrastructure development—expensive power supply connections and grid upgrades.

What is Upstream Infrastructure?

Upstream infrastructure includes essential elements like power transformers, electricity substations, and high-tension cable connections—critical to ensuring sufficient power supply for fast-charging EV stations. These components often involve significant capital expenditure, deterring many private players from entering the EV charging space.

What the Policy Offers

Under the new initiative, the Uttar Pradesh government will provide financial support for infrastructure components required to connect EV charging stations to the grid. This includes subsidies for:

  • Transformer installations
  • HT/LT cabling
  • Substation augmentation
  • Grid connectivity fees

The state aims to reduce the setup cost of EV charging stations by up to 30%, making it more attractive for businesses and investors.

Driving EV Growth in India’s Most Populous State

With this move, Uttar Pradesh reinforces its commitment to green mobility and positions itself as a national leader in EV infrastructure. The state already has a dedicated EV policy with incentives for vehicle buyers, manufacturers, and battery developers. This new subsidy expands the support ecosystem to include infrastructure developers.

What This Means for the EV Ecosystem

The decision is expected to:

  • Accelerate the deployment of public and private EV charging stations
  • Encourage more entrepreneurs and energy companies to invest in UP
  • Help achieve the state’s EV policy targets, which include making 100% of new public transport electric in major cities by 2030

Industry Reactions

EV and infrastructure companies have welcomed the announcement. Experts believe that UP’s model could serve as a blueprint for other states, as the lack of upstream infra funding has been a common hurdle across India.

Human Interest

Govt to Enforce Default AC Temperature Settings Between 20°C and 28°C to Cut Energy Use


New Delhi, June 11, 2025 — Say goodbye to bone-chilling air-conditioned rooms! In a significant move aimed at promoting energy efficiency and healthier living environments, the Indian government is preparing to implement a regulation that will enforce a default temperature range for air conditioners — between 20°C and 28°C.

The proposed rule, expected to be rolled out nationwide in phases, will apply to both residential and commercial buildings, including offices, malls, and public spaces. The policy is part of India’s broader energy conservation efforts and aligns with its commitment to sustainable development and climate responsibility.

Under the new guideline, AC manufacturers and suppliers will be required to set default temperature settings within the 20°C–28°C range. While users will still be able to adjust the settings manually, the idea is to nudge consumers toward more energy-conscious behavior.

According to government sources, excessive cooling not only leads to unnecessary power consumption but also contributes to higher electricity bills and respiratory discomfort due to drastic temperature shifts.

“This initiative is designed to encourage mindful use of air conditioning and reduce the carbon footprint associated with excessive cooling,” said a senior official at the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).

  • Energy Savings: Reducing the load on air conditioners by even 1°C can result in savings of up to 6% in energy consumption.
  • Lower Power Bills: Households and businesses can expect noticeable reductions in monthly electricity expenses.
  • Healthier Indoors: Moderating indoor temperatures helps maintain humidity levels and reduces the risk of respiratory and skin problems.
  • Climate Impact: Lower electricity usage directly contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

While environmental advocates and energy experts have welcomed the policy, some consumers and business owners have expressed concerns over personal comfort and flexibility.

However, the government clarified that the policy does not ban colder settings — it simply changes the default range to encourage sustainable usage. The initiative is also expected to raise awareness about eco-friendly cooling practices and the importance of energy conservation.

India’s move mirrors similar strategies adopted in countries like Japan and Singapore, where default temperature regulations have led to measurable reductions in energy consumption without compromising comfort.



As summer temperatures continue to rise, this policy shift could play a vital role in building climate-conscious habits and making everyday spaces more sustainable. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or shopping at a mall, expect a cooler — but not freezing — future ahead.