The first cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has been delivered to Hindustan Petroleum’s Chhara import terminal in Gujarat, according to shipping data analysed by LNG Prime.
The 159,800 cubic metres (cbm) Maran Gas Mystras vessel arrived at Chhara on April 11th, revealed data from Vessel Finder.
Located on the south coast of Gujarat State, the five million tonnes per annum (mtpa) terminal spans around 138 acres and was built by HPCL LNG.
Initially established as HPCL Shapoorj Energy Private Limited (HSEPL) through a 50:50 partnership between HPCL and SP Ports Private Limited (SPPPL) in 2013, the firm underwent a major transition in March 2021 when HPCL acquire SPPPL’s entire stake.
The terminal boasts a 1.2km-long jetty capable of accommodating carriers with capacities ranging from 80,000 to 266,000 cbm. It also features two LNG storage tanks, each with a capacity of 200,000 cbm.
This facility marks India’s eighth import terminal, indicating the nation’s growing reliance on LNG as an energy source.
India’s other LNG import facilities include Petronet LNG’s Dahej and Kochi terminals, Dabhol LNG, Shell’s Hazira terminal, Mundra LNG, Ennore LNG and Dhamra LNG terminal.
India’s history with LNG reflects a strategic effort to diversify its energy sources and meet the increasing demand for cleaner energy.
Over the years, India has made a host of major investments in LNG infrastructure, bolstering its capacity to import and utilise LNG effectively.
According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Gas Market Report, India’s natural gas demand is projected to increase by 6% this year, driven by higher consumption in the fertiliser, power generation and industrial sectors.
Despite rising demand, India imports 44% of its natural gas, as domestic production falls short of meeting its needs.
LNG imports grew by 7% year-on-year to 29 bcm, with the power and fertiliser sectors being significant contributors to this increase.
Power companies imported 2.32 bcm of LNG in 2023, accounting for about 9% of total imports.
