Collaborative alliance formed with India to promote gas standards and drive innovation for net zero advancements

The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on gas standards and hydrogen innovation.

This partnership aims to support the transition to net zero emissions in India, leveraging UK expertise and technologies.

As the global focus increasingly turns to sustainable energy alternatives, both IGEM and PNGRB acknowledge the essential importance of hydrogen in meeting climate objectives.

This partnership will enable them to collaboratively establish best practices and standards that promote the safe and effective utilisation of hydrogen within India's energy sector.

Anjan Kumar Mishra, Secretary at PNGRB, said: “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding between PNGRB and IGEM marks a significant milestone in strengthening technical collaboration in India's natural gas sector. By leveraging IGEM’s expertise in technical standards and certification, we will aim to enhance regulatory frameworks, promote industry best practices, and drive the transition towards a sustainable and decarbonized energy future. This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering innovation, capacity building, and global cooperation for the growth of the Indian oil and gas industry.”

IGEM CEO Oliver Lancaster said: “I’m very grateful for having the opportunity to develop a very positive relationship with PNGRB over the last two years. It has been fascinating to gain an understanding of the significant growth in the Indian gas industry, alongside a driven determination to transition to low carbon gas.

“I look forward to continue working towards a prosperous future for the rapidly expanding gas sector in India and developing IGEM’s role in supporting City Gas Distribution and the National Gas Grid with our technical standards, professional development, gas policy research, Hydrogen Knowledge Centre and connecting India with the rest of our global network of Company Members.”

The organisations express their sincere appreciation to Nitin Patil, IGEM Ambassador for India, whose unwavering dedication and contributions have played a crucial role in nurturing this partnership. His efforts to connect UK and Indian expertise have facilitated this recent collaboration.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) details plans for initiatives, knowledge sharing, and workshops aimed at improving the comprehension and application of gas standards and strategies and represents a significant advancement in the worldwide initiative to address climate change and highlights the critical role of international cooperation in reaching sustainable energy objectives.