Bengaluru: HPCL has set-up its state-of-the-art HP Green R&D Centre in Bengaluru and is carrying out research in various areas related to petroleum refining, development of novel catalysts & additives, biofuels, alternate energy, nanotechnology, etc. and has developed patented technologies / products for various applications.
Sea6 Energy Private Limited headquartered in Bengaluru, was founded in 2010 to develop innovative solutions for key global problems. Over the last decade, it has become a pioneer of innovative technologies for sustainable, large-scale and mechanized farming of seaweeds and the conversion of this biomass to novel products.
Seaweeds provide an attractive alternative to traditional biomass as far as biofuel production is concerned because it doesn’t compete with food security, does not require fertilizers or irrigation, can be practiced in areas unsuitable for traditional agriculture such as coastlines, etc. Moreover, seaweeds grow much faster than terrestrial crops, with some species capable of doubling their biomass in just a few days and they are an excellent option for carbon capture for meeting India’s net-zero commitments by 2070.
According to a HPCL spokesperson, "HPCL and Sea6 Energy Private Limited, recognizing similarity of their interests, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for R&D collaboration in areas of mutual interest on 9th December 2024, particularly on joint development and commercialization of technologies for valorizing seaweed biomass."
This strategic collaboration also marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards self-reliance in cutting-edge technology, aligning with the Government of India's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, National Biofuel Policy and the greater objective of energy security.
Under this MOU, HPCL will develop and scale-up technologies jointly with Sea6 Energy for the conversion of seaweed biomass into fuels and chemicals. While these technologies are being developed and piloted, Sea6 Energy will also work on the upstream portion of making seaweed farming and harvesting more cost effective.
BI Bureau
