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14 OPEC members stand ahead of November's crucial meeting

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Qatar

relies on liquid natural gas,


Risk for this year: 2

Oil production last month: 0.62 millions of barrels/day

Oil production 2015 average: 0.67 mb/d

Qatar is a big player in the liquefied natural gas sector, and so analysts believe that its challenges "will emerge later this decade."

Still, it's notable that the country raised $9 billion in Eurobonds back in May, which was the biggest bond issuance in the Middle East until Saudi Arabia's last month.



United Arab Emirates

Risk for next year: 2

Oil production last month: 3.11 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 2.88 mb/d

Like other GCC states, the United Arab Emirates remains better positioned than other producers to weather lower oil. However, it, too, has made some cutbacks.

"GCC monarchies survived the Arab spring uprisings largely unscathed by ratcheting up social spending. Now, however, the recent moves to scale back the social contract pose the risk of domestic discord and strife," wrote Croft.

"Hence, the GCC — UAE included— will likely remain core members of the Saudi-led OPEC coalition of the willing, together looking to add a little extra grease to the wheels toward achieving moderately higher prices."


Kuwait
Risk for next year: 3


Oil production last month: 2.96 mb/d


Oil production 2015 average: 2.85 mb/d


Although Kuwait has a small population and a relatively large sovereign wealth fund, the country has seen some disarray in 2016.



Back in April, oil workers
went on strike to protest proposed government cutbacks. And more recently, the Emir dissolved parliament following "disputes between MPs and the government over fuel price increases in the oil-rich country."


Indonesia
Risk for next year: 3


Oil production last month: 0.74 mb/d


Oil production 2015 average: 0.79 mb/d


Indonesia is highly exposed to any potential slowdown in China, one of the big oil guzzlers.


Separately, there were reports that the country's state oil company, Pertamina, wants to up production by 42% in 2017.


Iran


Risk for next year: 5

Oil production last month: 3.68 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 2.81 mb/d

Iran previously saw a "reversal of fortunes" after sanctions were lifted. However, the election of Donald Trump now increases the possibility of a "snap-back" of sanctions on Tehran, given that the president-elect called the Iran deal "one of the worst deals ever negotiated."

"Given the question mark now looming over its economic revival, Iran may no longer be able to maintain such a price agnostic production position," argued Croft. "We may already be seeing signs of this, with oil minister Bijan Zanganeh saying on Sunday that it is 'highly probable' that OPEC will reach a consensus in Vienna."

"The fact that the country has basically clawed itself back to its pre-sanctions output
position may also make it adopt a more conciliatory stance in Vienna and our base case is that Iran will be part of OPEC’s coalition of the willing on November 30."


Ecuador
Risk for next year: 5

Oil production last month: 0.56 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 0.54 mb/d

Ecuador suffered a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake back in April, which saw a death toll of over 650. China helped with the relief effort, and since then, the two countries have worked to expand economic ties.


Angola


Risk for next year: 6

Oil production last month: 1.66 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 1.80 mb/d

Angola briefly enjoyed the status as Africa's largest producer earlier this year, but has fallen back to second place as Nigerian production ramped back up.

The country continues to struggle with high inflation — which hit 40.04% year-over-year in October — and its currency, the kwanza, fell by over 30% against the dollar in 2015.

At the same time, there are concerns about corruption after President Jose Eduardo dos Santos hired his daughter, the richest woman in the country, to lead the state oil company.


Saudi Arabia

Risk for next year: 6


Oil production last month: 10.58 mb/d



Oil production 2015 average: 10.24 mb/d



The RBC Capital Markets team argues that there's a good chance OPEC will agree to a cut come November 30 — and all because of Saudi Arabia.



"Our view is primarily based on the belief that the single most important country in OPEC, Saudi Arabia, wants it, and that the ability of a number of suspected cheaters to cheat is constrained," they wrote. "OPEC’s leadership is cognizant of the risks posed by failing to reach a deal."



Against the backdrop of this, Saudi Arabia is pushing forward with major reforms. Although there have yet to be major protests, the austerity measures are front-loaded — which creates a challenge for the government.


Gabon

Risk for next year: 6

Oil production last month: 0.20 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 0.21 mb/d

Gabon saw protests erupt after the outcome of the presidential election this past summer. Protestors even set fire to the parliament building, according to the Washington Post. According to authorities, three were killed, 105 were wounded, and 800 people were arrested.



Algeria

Risk for next year: 8

Oil production last month: 1.11 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 1.10 mb/d

"Algeria is facing the twin challenges of a fiscal crisis and a serious terrorism threat at a time when the aged head of state is largely incapacitated due to health problems," wrote Croft.

Reuters reports that the president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who is 79, has been rarely seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. This has raised questions about whether he will finish out his term to 2019.



Iraq


Risk for next year: 9

Oil production last month: 4.59 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 4.03 mb/d

"Regarding coordinated OPEC action, Iraqi officials insist that any cap would hurt efforts to fight ISIS," wrote Croft. "In our view, though, a far greater threat to Iraq’s financial health is lower oil prices."

"The country has a limited ability to offset the negative economic effects of a 'no deal' price slide given already high output levels and the ongoing security threat."



Libya

Risk for next year: 9


Oil production last month: 0.52 mb/d


Oil production 2015 average: 0.39 mb/d


Libya has fractured into turmoil since Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown in 2011. Fast forward to today, the RBC Capital Markets team argues that there remain obstacles to a sustainable return of production.



"In our view, battle lines between the west and the east seem to be hardening and oil could easily become a casualty of the deteriorating security environment," they wrote.



Nigeria


Risk for next year: 10

Oil production last month: 1.67 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 1.94 mb/d

The fundamental drivers of instability in Nigeria's oil region — namely, poverty, corruption, and the proliferation of weapons — remain in place. And the country has seen a number of pipeline attacks over the last few weeks.

"Leading Nigeria experts contend that the government has made little progress toward a settlement with the multitude of armed actors despite several high-profile meetings in Abuja," wrote Croft. "Nigeria, like Libya, is one of the wild card red herrings where we think many market participants have a bullish view on production, which to us seems unwarranted."


Venezuela

Risk for next year: 10

Oil production last month: 2.18 mb/d

Oil production 2015 average: 2.36 mb/d

Venezuela is currently on the precipice of political and economic disaster, plagued by economic mismanagement, a chronic balance of payments problem, soaring inflation, food and essential goods shortages, and looting and violence. Most recently, its state oil company, PDVSA, activated a 30-day grace period for $404 million in interest payments on its 2021, 2024 and 2035 bonds.

"Seasoned country experts contend that production could soon dip below 2 mb/d. While many market participants think of Venezuela as likely to cheat, it simply lacks the barrels to do so in our view," wrote Croft.

"...it is likely that no sovereign producer is facing as frightening a future in a low oil price environment."



 
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there will be no deal. OPEC is finished and they know it.

the new OPEC is

Russia
US
Canada
Mexico
Brazil
Kazakhstan
 
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Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
05-December, 2016 12:15 IST
Text of speech of Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan during inauguration of PETROTECH-2016, Plenary Hall, Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi;

Chairman of Indian Oil & Petrotech Steering Committee Shri B. Ashok;

Ministers for oil and gas from various countries;

Ambassadors, High Commissioners;

CEOs & Experts in the field of oil and gas;

Distinguished guests;

Friends from Media;

Ladies and Gentlemen.


We are indeed honoured to have such a distinguished participation in PETROTECH-2016. It is equally a great honour that Hon’ble Prime Minister has spared his valuable time to inaugurate this flagship oil and gas event of India. Hon’ble Prime Minister always shows his keen interest on issues of energy justice and climate change. He has been a guiding force in evolution of a New Energy Policy which promises for green, reliable and affordable energy for all. He has also called for a saffron revolution which means energy revolution in India.


This edition of PETROTECH is the largest ever in terms of participation of above 6,500 delegates including 20 Minister level representatives, Heads of International Oil Organizations, CEOs and Experts. I welcome the Ministers from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Cyprus, Chad, Colombia, Cameroon, Qatar, Iraq, Mauritius, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda along with the Secretary General of OPEC, Secretary General of International Energy Forum and President of the International Gas Union. The Petrotech Exhibition running concurrently has nearly 700 exhibitors from over 50 countries showcasing the latest technology offerings from leading Indian and foreign companies.


In today’s world, disruption has become a part of life. Thus, it has become imperative that we take time to reflect on the theme of this conference - “Hydrocarbons to fuel the future - Choices and Challenges”. The Conference goes beyond oil and gas and covers the overall landscape of energy sector. We have conceived PETROTECH as a platform where policy makers, experts, CEOs, regulators and academics can exchange knowledge, expertise and experiences. We live in a globalized world. Therefore, synergy in our efforts is very crucial.


Last week the OPEC countries pledged to reduce their production by 1.2 million barrels a day. Non-OPEC countries also agreed to a production cut to the tune of 0.6 Million barrel per day. The proposed cut caused a surge in oil prices to above US$50 a barrel and speculation is rife that it might go up even further. It is a coincidence that we are meeting immediately after the OPEC decision in India which is a major oil consuming economy.


I want to submit before this august gathering that for the sustainability of the oil markets, we must strike a balance of interest between producers and consumers. In June last year in an OPEC event, I had submitted the view point of India. Consumption of petroleum products is price sensitive as there is a genuine issue of affordability for a sizable population in India and other developing countries. Hence, while deciding the pricing aspect of crude oil, it should be factored in that the security of supply must, in turn, be matched by security of demand.


I take the example of India. We are already the third largest energy consumer in the World behind the US and China. At 4.3 million barrels per day, although we have a less than 5% share in the World consumption, but our annual consumption growth is far more significant. At 300,000 barrels per day growth, our contribution was about 30% of global growth in demand last year.


We understand that energy is the most important catalyst for achieving sustained growth. In the modern world, access to energy should be a fundamental right of each human being. This is particularly true for India with a rapidly growing economy and huge aspirational population. Hon'ble Prime Minister is committed to provide reliable and affordable energy, in a time bound manner, to a large proportion of our population which still does not have access to energy.


I have no hesitation to confess that the fall in oil prices in last two years came as a timely relief for Indian economy and consumers. This has helped us to increase penetration of cleaner fuel replacing polluting biomass among the poorer segments of society. All of you are familiar with international projections about very high growth rate in Indian energy consumption. This is a healthy aspect of India’s development since the per capita energy consumption figures in India is one among the lowest in the world. I am sure similar is the story in other developing countries. However, higher oil prices will risk this growth trajectory and deprive the underprivileged sections of society from access to energy.


In India, hydrocarbon is likely to remain an important source of energy while the share of renewables will rise. The new Government in India believes in integrated approach to energy security. We have set a target to generate 1,75,000 Megawatt from renewable energy by 2022. We are also moving ahead on cleaner coal technologies and nuclear energy areas. However, despite increase in renewables, according to the International Energy Agency estimates, India will need investments worth nearly US$600 billion up to 2030. This provides ample opportunities for companies to invest in India across the hydrocarbon value chain.


In March 2015, the Hon’ble Prime Minister in this same venue set the target of decreasing our oil import dependence by 10% by 2022 when India celebrates its 75th year of independence. After doing the ground work, we are now confident that we can achieve this.


Government of India has taken several initiatives and reforms in Upstream, Midstream and Downstream sectors. Among other measures, we have introduced investor-friendly Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy; programmes for tapping unconventional sources like CBM & Gas Hydrates; efforts towards increase of gas share in energy mix from 6% to 15%; building gas pipeline and LNG re-gasification infrastructure; switching to BS-VI norms which are equivalent to EURO-VI emission norms by 2020 for reduction of vehicular emissions; adoption of ethanol blending programme, promotion of 2G ethanol and bio-diesel programme to develop alternate fuels.


We are happy that the results of recently concluded Discovered Small Field bidding round have been very encouraging where 134 bids were received for 34 contract areas from 42 companies including 5 foreign companies. I would like to add that India is one of the very few places where long term viable investment in all streams of the oil & gas sector can be planned.


In light of India’s commitments to COP-21 and towards the United Nation’s sustainable development goals, the Indian government is multiplying green initiatives and reforms to decrease India’s carbon footprint. The launch of the Gas4India campaign in 2016 aims at increasing the usage of gas as a clean fuel in our energy mix. Recently Hon’ble Prime Minister has inaugurated the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project comprising the laying out of 2,540 km long gas pipeline which will ensure supply of clean and eco- friendly fuel to eastern part of India.


A large number of Indian households rely on biomass which leads to health hazards for women. Under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, over US$ 1.2 billion has been allotted to provide 50 million LPG connections to poor families. Our target is to extend the LPG connection to 75% of all households in the next 3 years. We launched the highly successful Direct Benefit Transfer in LPG in January 2015 which has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest direct cash transfer scheme in the world. This scheme has brought transparency and eliminated multiple or duplicate connections and also reduced leakages in subsidy.


PETROTECH this year will also witness participation of key Indian Cabinet Ministers and Chief Ministers of states who will provide their 360 degree perspective. Every new edition of PETROTECH tells a new story of rising India. It is pertinent that this year the tagline for the event is “Energy is Here”. I am sure that PETROTECH will serve as a vibrant opportunity for all stakeholders to connect with this energy called India. I expect PETROTECH-2016 will be an enriching experience for delegates, our distinguished guests, and invitees.


Thank you all.

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi arrives at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi arrives at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016. The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan is also seen.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016. The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan is also seen.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016. The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan is also seen.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi lighting the lamp at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016. The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan is also seen.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan addressing at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016.
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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in a group photograph at the PETROTECH-2016: 12th International Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, in New Delhi on December 05, 2016. The Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (Independent Charge), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan is also seen.
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Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
06-December, 2016 18:46 IST
5th IEF – IGU Ministerial Gas Forum held in New Delhi

India expressed commitment to Producer Consumer dialogue on Gas related issues

The 5th IEF – IGU Ministerial Gas Forum was held in New Delhi today. In his concluding remarks MoS(I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that it provided an opportunity on deepening the dialogue on the role of Gas to enable an orderly energy transition that strengthens energy security, stimulates economic growth and enhances healthy energy market functioning, prosperity and well being globally. He said that on one hand the future of Gas is bright but on the other hand established policies and business models require closer consideration in light of current energy market projections. Shri Pradhan expressed commitment to the IEF Producer – Consumer dialogue and welcomed initiatives to ensure the Gas can make an optimal contribution to a healthy energy future through a rolling dialogue and also enhances Gas market transparency.

The Gas Forum also issued a concluding statement which is as follows –

“ 1- Upon the invitation of His Excellency Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of State of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas of the Republic of India, Ministers, industry leaders, heads of international organizations, and invited energy market stakeholders of the member countries of the International Energy Forum (IEF), and the International Gas Union (IGU) gathered at the 5th Meeting of the Bienniel IEF-IGU Ministerial Gas Forum, hosted by the Government of the Republic of India on 6 December 2016 in New Delhi, India.

2- Under the theme “Gas for Growth: Improving economic prosperity and living standards” ministers deepened their dialogue, while engaging with industry representatives as well as energy thought leaders on the role of gas to enable an orderly energy transition that strengthens energy security, stimulates economic growth and enhances healthy energy market functioning, prosperity and wellbeing globally.

3- Gathered in New Delhi India, one of the world’s largest new gas consuming markets, counting more than 1.2 billion prospective gas consumers in the world, and most rapid growing economy that is seeking to embrace the “Age of Gas”, ministers from both producing and consuming countries, exchanged views in three sessions on gas for growth and sustainability, regional gas markets; new prospects for trade and integration, and policy trends for investment across regions.

4- Sessions included key note presentations by His Excellency Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of State of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas of the Republic of India, His Excellency Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, Qatar the Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, His Excellency Seyed Mohammad Hossein Adeli, the Chairman and Managing Director of Gail India, Shri B.C. Tripathi and Nizar Mohammad Al-Adsani, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, among the many senior level interlocutors from government, industry and international organizations.

5- Mindful of the outcomes of the 15th Session of the IEF Ministerial Energy Forum held in Algiers on 26- 28 September 2016 that took place against the background of key governance initiatives, such as, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit on 25 September 2015, the landmark “Paris Agreement” concluded the 21st session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, as well as new energy governance initiatives in the framework of the G20 and other platforms, discussions focused on how gas resources and technologies can stimulate sustainable growth, diversify economies, improve air quality, keep global warming within agreed thresholds, and achieve energy access goals.

6- Ministers discussed global market developments that are characterized by more abundant gas supplies, weaker than expected demand growth, and the global spread of new technologies that enables more diverse gas trade between global gas and demand centers in which Asia and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) flows are rapidly increasing market share. They noted that this has made gas markets more competitive, and the terms of trade more short-term and flexible between a broader range of gas producers and consumers that stand to further benefit both.

7- Ministers acknowledged that increasing supplies on a more competitive global gas market creates new opportunities for gas importing countries to lock in supplies on more favorable terms. On the other hand enduring gas market supply abundance reduces investment incentives in the development of upstream gas resources. Growing gas trade volumes and opportunities may expose global gas markets to new risks and price fluctuations, as shifts in regional markets can propagate with greater ease across a better interconnected system. Delegates noted the importance of strengthening dialogue on a rolling basis, and that bilateral producer-consumer relations built up over the past decades remain critical for longer term gas market security.

8- Delegates recognized that a denser global midstream sector with more diverse pipeline and flexible LNG trade capacity should encourage governments to consider market reforms that reduce price, regulatory, infrastructure and other hurdles, and industry to consider more cost efficient operations and innovate on business models. For all stakeholders it would be important to seize the opportunity of more abundant gas supplies and trade in shaping healthier energy matrices that increase economic prosperity and living standards in both consuming and producing countries while delivering on globally agreed goals.

9- Noting that gas can be a driving force to help achieve an orderly energy transition, and is projected to make the largest contribution to societies across the world, when compared to other energy technologies in energy outlooks, delegates acknowledged that an enhanced producers-consumer dialogue on the evolution of gas markets is necessary for both governments and industry to seize on these opportunities arising on the medium term, and maintain longer term gas market security.

10- Ministers noted that on one hand the future of gas is bright considering 21st century demographics that require economic prosperity and living standards to increase across societies, but that on the other hand, established policies and business models require closer consideration in light of current energy market projections. To facilitate future gas demand growth trajectories, ministers and industry delegates affirmed their commitment to:

• The IEF producer-consumer dialogue welcoming initiatives to conduct an energy technology neutral, inclusive and ongoing dialogue on the platform that the IEF uniquely provides to ensure gas markets make an optimal contribution to energy matrices, for governments and industry to deliver on economic growth, climate change, and energy transition goals.

• The Joint Organizations Data Initiative (JODI-Gas) and the JODI 5-Year Plan that Ministers validated at the 15th International Energy Forum meeting on 26-28 September 2016 in Algiers, aiming to improve complete, timely gas market data reporting on a more visible and user-friendly JODI platform, and to explore improving energy market data transparency in general. “

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Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
06-December, 2016 11:47 IST
MoS(I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas inaugurates the 5th IEF-IGU Ministerial Forum

Essence of sustainable development lies in fulfilling the needs of the present without compromising the growth aspirations of our future generations: Shri Dharmendra pradhan.

The Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the 5th IEF-IGU Ministerial Forum in New Delhi today. The Ministerial forum is being held as a parallel event to the 3-day Petrotech-2016. Minister of Energy and Mines, Brazil, H.E. Fernando Bezerra FILHO, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Cyprus H.E. Mr. Yiorgos LAKKOTRYPIS, Minister of Petroleum and Gas, Nigeria H.E. Dr. Emmanuel Ibe KACHIKWU, Minister of Energy and Industry, Qatar H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Saleh AL-SADA, Deputy Minister for Gas Affairs of Ministry of Oil, Iraq H.E. Dr. Hamed Younis SALEH, Secretary General, OPEC Mr. Mohammed Sanusi BARKINDO, Secretary General, International Energy Forum, Dr. Sun XIANSHENG, President, International Gas Union, Mr. David CARROLL and Secretary General, International Gas Union Mr. Luis Bertran RAFECAS were present on the occasion.

Welcoming the participants, Shri Pradhan said that the theme of this meet "Gas for Growth : Improving economic prosperity and living standards" could very well be the story of the initiatives taken in India towards this end. He said compared to international average, the share of gas in India’s primary energy basket is only at about 6.5% and we have set a target to raise the share of gas in primary energy from the current level to 15%. This means annual gas consumption would accelerate from about 50 BCM to above 200 BCM in future. The Minister said that that a shift towards a gas based economy would require adequate availability of natural gas through domestic production as well as imports, adequate investments in pipeline, LNG import terminal and City Gas Distribution infrastructure and even financial support in the form of incentives. Shri Pradhan enlisted the initiatives taken by the Government in this regard- allowing 100% Foreign Direct Investment in many segments of the hydrocarbon sector, successful conclusion of Open bidding under a new 'Marginal Fields Policy' , introduction of new Hydrocarbon Exploration Licensing Policy, giving top priority to allocation of domestically produced gas for City Gas Distribution, pooling of gas for fertilizer and power plants. To meet the demands that an economy with 15% share of gas in the energy basket will entail, matching infrastructure will be needed and the Government is prepared for that. Calling for the support of the entire industry, the consumers and the people at large in meeting ambitious targets, Shri Pradhan said that it cannot be achieved by Governments alone.

Talking about the international collaboration in the area of natural gas, the Minister said the world needs even greater co-operation among countries on gas technologies, such as Shale and Gas Hydrates. Similarly, a number of large Asian LNG buyers, including India, could benefit by joining hands and thereby, possibly, bring in more equitable trade deals.

He also highlighted the global gas prices in the context of emerging LNG demand-supply interplay. LNG prices have been soft over the past 18-24 months, much in tandem with crude prices. LNG contracting mechanisms are changing with short term contracts growing and replacing long term contracts. He said many analysts believe that it will be a buyers’ market for a while and LNG buyers will continue to have options. Technology for renewables has been developing rapidly in recent years leading to very competitive prices. He said that the essence of sustainable development lies in fulfilling the needs of the present without compromising the growth aspirations of our future generations. This way, a move towards a natural gas-fuelled economy will help us achieve the twin objectives of economic growth and sustainable development.

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By: PTI | Houston | Published:March 1, 2017 2:39 pm
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Dharmendra Pradhan

Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will showcase India’s oil and gas field discoveries at a global energy conference beginning in Houston next week.

Pradhan and Russia’s energy minister Alexander Novak will be among those to address the international gathering of industry, policy and financial leaders at CERAWeek 2017, organised by the UK-based IHS Markit from March 6 to 10.

“We look forward to Novak’s perspectives on behalf of Russia, the world’s largest oil producer and those of Pradhan’s on behalf of India, the world’s fastest-growing major energy market as well as future prospects for its domestic oil and gas production,” said Daniel Yergin, conference chair and vice chairman of IHS Markit.

Pradhan and senior officials from Oil and Gas sector will showcase India’s small and marginal oil and gas field discoveries at the conference.

Representatives from Saudi Arabia, Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), International Energy Agency, Canada, Bangladesh, Nigeria, the UAE, Rwanda, the UK, Sri Lanka would also address the conference.

The annual Energy Innovation Pioneers (EIP) programme aims to identify the most innovative and distinctive new technologies across the energy spectrum including advanced analytics, distributed generation, energy storage, the Internet of Things, robotics and transportation. Judging criteria has included creativity, feasibility of plan, scalability of technology and leadership team.

“Technology is at the heart of the energy business all across the energy spectrum, and these creative and dedicated problem-solvers highlight the critical role of innovation in shaping the energy future. It is innovation that will determine the pace of change,” said James Rosenfield, co-
chairman of CERAWeek and founder of the EIP program.

“Through their entrepreneurial spirit, this year’s class of Energy Innovation Pioneers represents technology start-ups that see the challenges of competing energy supplies, shifting policies and emerging technologies as opportunities,” said Carolyn Seto, the programme’s director and co-chair.

Alex Klaessig, associate director and program co-chair said, “The increased penetration of renewables and storage at a time of low wholesale power prices challenge traditional utility practices.

“The innovative ideas, technologies, and business models of this year’s class of Pioneers show how innovation conquers those challenges, and also demonstrate how their solutions draw from and contribute to progress in other sectors”.

The conference will feature more than 350 speakers from around the world.
 
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Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
22-May, 2017 19:14 IST
Petroleum Minister co chairs India OPEC Institutional Dialogue at Vienna



Shri Pradhan emphasised on ‘Asian Dividend rather than paying Asian Premium’



Stressed on work towards “Responsible Pricing” by OPEC; important for India for socio-economic and developmental reasons



The production cut is an attempt to arrest slide in prices; But there is chance of under investment and consumer’s needs not being met in long run




The Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan visited Vienna, Austria to co-chair the 2nd India-OPEC Institutional Dialogue at the OPEC headquarters. The meeting took place two days prior to the OPEC Ministerial meeting that is scheduled from 25th May.

Shri Pradhan held a one-to-one meeting with the Secretary General of OPEC Mr Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo. Later he discussed bilateral issues of interest at a delegation level dialogue. Shri Pradhan highlighted the importance of India – OPEC engagement and discussed on the effects of the production cut of 1.8 mbpd by OPEC and non-OPEC countries on the global oil market volatility.

The Minister said that India had been and continued to be a reliable customer of OPEC countries, the only big economy where the demand for crude oil continues to rise each year. About 86% if India’s import of crude oil, 70% of natural gas, 95% of LPG are from OPEC countries. Shri Pradhan alos informed about the increasing refining capacity of India and future expansion plans. He also briefed OPEC about the expanding petrochemical sector in India.

In this context, Shri Pradhan underlined the importance of market and reiterated the need to intensify bilateral dialogue to change the nature of engagement from a buyer-seller relationship to an Energy Partnership. He added that in today’s oversupplied market, it was important for producers to understand the perspective of consumers and the demand centers and the changes that have taken place in these demand centres. He stressed on the fact that while the security of supplies was important for consuming countries, the security of demand was equally important for producers. In this context, he emphasised the importance of a purposeful and improved dialogue among producer and consumer countries, particularly benefitting India as a fast growing market.

Shri Pradhan reiterated that as a large import destination there should be no ‘Asian Premium’ on the crude supplied to India and Asian buyers. He highlighted that India provided timely payments and honored all its contractual commitments and demanded due acknowledgment through discount in prices for large volumes that India imports. He added that for a long time OPEC subsidised western buyers at the cost of Asian buyers. Given the importance of Asian market for OPEC, particularly fast growing Indian market which stood by OPEC as a reliable and continued customer, Shri Pradhan emphasised on ‘Asian Dividend rather than paying Asian Premium’.

The Minister also stressed that the OPEC should work towards “Responsible Pricing” which is important for India for socio-economic and developmental reasons. It would allow India to provide energy to the common and marginalised people who have been deprived of access to energy so far. Higher crude prices would retard growth rate which will result in slowing down the demand of crude oil.


The Minister highlighted that the Energy Mix in India is undergoing major changes with renewables coming in a big way and pricing of solar energy coming down to 4 cents per unit. There is also a shift in focus to solar, wind, biomass, Electric Vehicles, Hybrid cars etc. He emphasised that the oil Industry is at a delicate cross road and higher crude prices will give a further push to renewables.


On the proposed plan of continued production cut by OPEC and non-OPEC countries, Shri Pradhan said that energy security was a full circle. He said that while the production cut is an attempt to arrest the slide in prices, however, it also has an inherent chance of under investment and consumer’s needs not being met in the long run, which is not in the interest of a balanced and healthy global oil and gas market.

The Minister was accompanied by Secretary for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Indian Ambassador in Vienna and CEOs of seven large refiners of India, both from public and private sector including IOCL, HPCL, BPCL, MRPL, HMEL, Reliance and Essar. The CEOs also emphasised their points of view during the OPEC meeting.

This was the first time that both public sector and private refiners from India came together to present their common issues, concerns and demands before the OPEC.

Shri Pradhan thanked the Secretary General for hosting the meeting. It was agreed that India will host the next meeting during 2018.
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Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
23-May, 2017 09:42 IST
Complete text of opening remarks by Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan at India – OPEC Energy Dialogue at Vienna

“Excellency and friends from OPEC, it is indeed a pleasure to meet you all here at OPEC headquarters.

· Just before joining you all in this Hall, I had a very good meeting with the Secretary General. We briefly discussed issues that concern both India and OPEC.


· I am happy that we are able to meet at regular intervals to share with each other our perspectives on the global hydrocarbon sector.


· I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the arrangements made for this 2ndIndia-OPEC Institutional Dialogue, just prior to the OPEC Ministerial scheduled two days later.


· I have brought a Group-7 of Indian Refiners. My delegation includes 7 Chief Executives from public and private sector, who head all 23 refineries in India processing 235 Million Metric Ton of crude annually or 4.7 Million Barrel per day capacity. They are important stakeholders, as they import 4 million barrel per day of crude and refine it and market it both in domestic and international markets.

Excellency and friends,

· The India-OPEC dialogue is an important mechanism for us. I would like to give you a general perspective about India’s energy landscape. My colleagues will make detailed presentations during the course of the day.


· Our Government is committed to provide clean and affordable fuel to all citizens of India. Lot of people still do not have ready access to quality energy, and we are expanding access of energy to the poor and excluded segment of the society.


· In the energy sector, the priorities of the government are:

- Energy access
- Energy efficiency
- Energy sustainability
- Energy security


· Towards achieving this, we have introduced several policies and reforms in the hydrocarbon sector. With the reforms and schemes the consumption of petroleum products is fast growing. We are also able to increase the penetration of fossil fuel in the country. With the shifting economic paradigm to the global East we plan to do much more.


· Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is having the most stable political situation with solid macroeconomics. We are largely insulated from global slowdown. We have inflation under control, our current account deficit and fiscal deficit are under control.


· Coming to the India-OPEC dialogue, it is crucial for us as we import about 86% of our crude, 70% of natural gas, 95% of cooking gas from the OPEC countries.


· We expect this dialogue mechanism to be a useful tool to convey our position to the OPEC member countries.


· During my last visit to Vienna for the 6th OPEC International Seminar in 2015, I had raised the issue of ‘Asian Dividend not Asian Premium’. The issue of Asian Premium still continues to exist. Our companies pay billions of dollars on this account. They still don't understand the rationale of this cross subsidisation of tariff between West and the East.


· OPEC should treat Asian markets as Primary markets. It's strategy of incentivising Western markets in the past did not result in retaining those markets.


· I am fully aware that OPEC member countries are in the business of selling oil and not subsidising it. However, my purpose of raising this issue again today is to say that don’t subsidise others at our expense. I urge the OPEC and through you also to Non-OPEC countries to purposefully consider this.


· The other issue I have been raising is that OPEC should work towards “Responsible Price” which would allow major consuming countries to provide energy to the common people. Higher prices would force them to go for alternate forms of energy which would be slowing down the demand of crude oil.


· The energy mix in India in last 3 years has changed with renewables coming in a big way and pricing of solar energy coming down to 4 cents per unit. There is huge pressure to shift focus to solar, wind, Electric Vehicles, Hybrid cars etc. Yesterday I saw video of Lockheed Martin developing Hybrid Aircrafts. We need to realise that the oil Industry is at a delicate cross road and higher crude prices will give a further push to renewables.


· I believe the purpose of setting up this Institutional Dialogue is to exactly serve this purpose, and to have a dialogue between OPEC as a producer and India as a consumer, to sensitise each other’s concerns and to better understand our perspectives.


Excellency and Friends,

· I would like to inform that India is growing consistently at a rate above 7 % annually. The growth rate in the energy sector is over 7-8%, which is double the rate of many developed markets. With increasing demand and consumption, we are increasing imports and also our refining capacity.


· Today, our annual refining capacity is 235 MMT of which 194 MMT of products are consumed domestically, while the rest is exported. At the same time our energy consumption is expected to double in the next 15 years. We are in fact net exporters of Gasoline, Naptha, Jet fuel and Gas oil. We are in the process of increasing our refining capacity around 310 MMT by 2023. India is fast becoming a refinery hub.


· We are also investing about US$ 80 billion in Petrochemicals in next 3-5 years.

· Excellency and friends,

· India has three important resources:

i. Technology;
ii. Human resources; and one which connects these two
iii. Market, in fact one of the largest markets.

· This is supplemented by a strong, dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi.


· Technology has changed the very fundamentals of our industry. In India it has helped us to become more effective and efficient. We have been able to set up complex and efficient refineries and petrochemical complexes in India. These refineries can refine all kinds of crude from different parts of the world.


· Indian engineers today have mastered the technology in refining sector and have set up large and complex refineries with high efficiency. Last year our engineers built a state-of-the-art refinery in Paradip in the Eastern part of India. It is one of the most advanced refineries in India with a Nelson index of 14. It is our effort to continuously upgrade our personnel to meet global industry standards.


· Presently, India’s per capita energy consumption is 0.55 tons of oil equivalent, which is far below the global average of 1.9 tons of oil equivalent. The energy consumption is expected to grow to almost double by 2035.


· All the three factors have placed India in a very unique position which makes us an important customer who cannot be neglected. There are similar customers in our part of the world, however, India is the only country where the demand will continue to rise for more than a decade.


· This is where the need for revisiting our engagement with OPEC is felt important.


· I would like to highlight that there is a vast resource base of non-conventional oil and gas to explore and develop. In fact, the revolution in shale technology in the USA is an important contributor to today’s level of oil prices.


· I would like to also underline here the importance of market. In today’s oversupplied market, it is important for producers to understand the perspective of consumers and demand centres and the changes that have taken place in these demand centres.


· As the security of supplies is an important factor for consumers, security of demand is equally important for producers.


· I understand that energy security is a full circle. We all know that production cut is an attempt to arrest the slide in prices, however, it also has an inherent chance of under investment and consumer’s needs not being met in the long run, which is not in the interest of a balanced and healthy global oil and gas market. We are not just sellers and buyers, we are Energy Partners.


· Given the technological advances and scenarios that might develop and in order to benefit from the available global spread of energy resource base, we are engaged with several non-traditional producers and suppliers. Our Group of Seven Refiners, who are here today, are working out details of the strategy to buy cargos, including from the USA and Canada, which happens to be becoming very competitive.


· Our government is working to make India as a gas based economy. We are creating several gas based infrastructure in India, including adding of another 14,000 kms of gas pipelines to the existing 16,000 kms pipelines. We are building mega refineries, petrochemical complexes and LNG terminals.


· In this context, we are confident that the India-OPEC engagement will prove to be a very productive dialogue mechanism to grow together.

Thank you.”

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