State-owned oil major Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sea6 Energy Private Limited for collaborative research and development focused on the commercialization of technologies that convert seaweed biomass into biofuels and chemicals, the company announced on Wednesday.
Under the terms of the MoU, HPCL will work with Sea6 Energy to jointly develop and scale up technologies aimed at transforming seaweed biomass into sustainable fuels and chemicals. Additionally, Sea6 Energy will focus on improving the upstream processes of seaweed farming and harvesting, making them more cost-effective.
Seaweed offers several advantages over traditional biomass sources for biofuel production. Unlike land-based crops, seaweed does not compete with food production, and it requires no fertilizers or irrigation. It can be cultivated in coastal areas unsuitable for traditional agriculture. Moreover, seaweed grows significantly faster than terrestrial crops, with some species doubling their biomass in just a few days. This rapid growth, combined with its potential for carbon capture, positions seaweed as a key player in meeting India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
HPCL has established the HP Green R&D Centre in Bengaluru, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to research in petroleum refining, biofuels, alternative energy, nanotechnology, and other areas. The company has developed several patented technologies and products for a range of applications.
Founded in 2010, Sea6 Energy, also based in Bengaluru, specializes in large-scale mechanized seaweed farming and the conversion of this biomass into novel, sustainable products. Over the years, the company has emerged as a pioneer in seaweed-based technology solutions.
The partnership between HPCL and Sea6 Energy, formalized on December 9, 2024, reflects the shared commitment of both companies to advancing innovative solutions for the valorization of seaweed biomass. This collaboration also aligns with India’s broader goals of energy security, self-reliance in cutting-edge technologies, and the government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the National Biofuel Policy.
The strategic partnership represents a significant step toward realizing India’s sustainable energy future while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
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