HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) to jointly pursue research and development in new products, processes, and technologies within the energy sector.

In a statement, HMEL said the collaboration would centre on pioneering R&D initiatives with tangible impact, including the development of sustainable energy technologies, process innovations, advanced materials, and AI-enabled energy systems. Both institutions aim to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, converting novel ideas into scalable, market-ready solutions.

HMEL is a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Mittal Energy Investment Pte Ltd, Singapore – a part of the Lakshmi N Mittal Group. It owns and operates an oil refinery and petrochemical plant with a capacity of 11.3 million tonnes per annum in Bhatinda, Punjab.

Commenting on the collaboration, Prabh Das, Managing Director & CEO of HMEL, said, “Innovation lies at the heart of our strategy. This partnership with IIT Kanpur is a significant step towards advancing next-generation technologies that underpin sustainable and efficient energy systems. We are delighted to work alongside one of India’s premier academic institutions to foster meaningful progress.”

Research and innovation are key pillars of HMEL’s sustainability agenda. The company has filed numerous patents—many of which have already been granted—and leads the Indian oil industry in the commercial implementation of these innovations.

This MoU reinforces the shared commitment of HMEL and IIT Kanpur to drive excellence in research and technology development, further strengthening India's position in the evolving global energy landscape.