RoydadNaft –   India’s natural gas consumptionreached 6019 million standard cubic meters (MMSCM) in October 2024, with the fertilizer sector accounting for the largest share at 29%, followed by city gas distribution (CGD) at 21%, and power generation at 11%, according to the Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell (PPAC).

The fertilizer sector consumed 1725 MMSCM of natural gas during the month, a 9% decline compared to the same period last year. CGD consumption grew 7% year-on-year to 1261 MMSCM, while the power sector saw a sharp drop in demand, falling 23% to 674 MMSCM.

The refinery and petrochemical sectors reported steady consumption at 523 MMSCM and 209 MMSCM, respectively, showing increases of 5.9% and 11%. Other industrial and manufacturing applications collectively used 1628 MMSCM, up 11% from October 2023.

LNG Imports Surge Amid Falling Domestic Production

The total natural gas available for sale rose to 5527 MMSCM in October, marking a 4.2% increase from the previous year. LNG imports surged by 10.8% to 2941 MMSCM, while domestic gas production fell by 1.6% to 3111 MMSCM. Of the gross production, 83.1% was made available for sale after accounting for flaring and internal consumption.

The report highlights growing reliance on LNG to meet rising demand as domestic production continues to decline. Fertilizers and CGD remain key drivers of natural gas consumption, while the drop in power sector usage signals changing energy dynamics.