Core Insights - Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) has officially commenced operations at its residue upgradation facility (RUF) at the Visakh Refinery in Andhra Pradesh, with a capacity of 3.55 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) [1][2] - The facility utilizes advanced LC-Max-based residue hydrocracking technology, converting approximately 93% of low-value oils into high-value petroleum products [1][2] - The project represents India's first residue hydrocracking unit and the first global deployment of LC-Max technology at such a scale, enhancing the refinery's distillate yield by up to 10% [2][5] Company Developments - HPCL anticipates a reduction in reliance on imported fuels, strengthening its supply chain and increasing profitability through improved margins [3] - The modernization of the Visakh Refinery has elevated its Nelson Complexity Index to 11.6, following multiple expansions since its initial commissioning in 1957 [3][4] - The project management consultant for the RUF was Engineers India (EIL), while Larsen & Toubro handled engineering, procurement, and construction [4] Industry Context - The deployment of LC-Max technology aligns with India's increasing energy requirements, reflecting the industry's shift towards more efficient refining processes [5] - In August of the previous year, HPCL signed a heads of agreement with an ADNOC Gas subsidiary for the procurement of 500,000 tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas over a decade [5]