Reliance eyes integrated energy role as O2C leads transformation: Ambani

Ambani highlighted that the past year brought extraordinary complexity in global energy markets. Supply chain disruptions and trade shifts posed major challenges, he said

Speaking at Reliance Industries’ 48th Annual General Meeting (AGM), Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani said the group’s oil-to-chemicals (O2C) business is not merely a legacy business but the backbone of Reliance’s transformation into an integrated energy company, positioned for the next decade of global energy evolution.

Global energy market complexity

Ambani highlighted that the past year brought extraordinary complexity in global energy markets. “Supply chain disruptions, trade shifts, and petrochemical overcapacity posed major challenges,” he said.

Reliance’s performance edge

Despite these challenges, Reliance delivered industry-leading performance, Ambani noted. He said the success rests on advantages unique to the group:

 

• Operational excellence
• Feedstock flexibility
• Supply chain agility
• Deep market reach
• Technology-driven innovation

“Our operational excellence is evident in 100 per cent capacity utilisation, far higher than the global average of 80 per cent. This directly translates into superior capital returns. And it validates the strength of our model,” Ambani said. 

Sharing further details, Ambani said that the refineries processed a record 72.2 million tonnes of crude in FY25. "Our Petcoke Gasification Complex also delivered record output. Our diversified crude basket of over 250 grades gives unmatched flexibility. It allows us to adapt rapidly to market volatility and optimise processing margins," he said.

 

These achievements powered 11 per cent revenue growth to ₹6,26,921 crore ($73.4 billion) and Ebitda of ₹54,988 crore ($6.4 billion). "These strong margins prove our ability to deliver returns even under the most volatile environment," said Ambani.

Committed to being net-zero by 2035

Commenting on the company's commitment to being net-zero by 2035, Ambani said, "Our Net Carbon Zero commitment by 2035 is not just a pledge. It is a strategic transformation that positions Reliance advantageously in evolving energy markets."

 

He further added that the company's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) refinery has been recognised as the world's most energy-efficient facility. Reiterating the commitment, he said that RIL is shifting to clean fuels across its facilities. "Our efficiency programmes have delivered 10 million gigajoules of energy savings in three years. Our circular economy initiatives – waste plastic pyrolysis, biomass fuels, hydrogen – make Reliance a leader in sustainable materials."

Hydrocarbons will remain vital for India

RIL CMD also said that hydrocarbons will remain crucial for India in the coming years. "Our strategy is clear: excel in traditional energy while building the system of the future. We are developing an integrated portfolio spanning conventional fuels, biofuels, green hydrogen, and clean solutions," he explained. The company's Hazira carbon fibre facility will be one of the world's three largest, serving aerospace, defence, and advanced materials.

Work at Dhirubhai Ambani Giga Energy Complex progressing at record pace

Sharing insights on the Dhirubhai Ambani Giga Energy Complex, Ambani said that the work is progressing at a record pace. "It will be unmatched globally in size, scale, and integration," he said. Here is the first glimpse of construction on this site:

• 5 million manhours of engineering
• 44 million square feet of building area – four times the Tesla Gigafactory
• 3.4 million cubic meters of concrete
• 700,000 tonnes of steel – equal to 100 Eiffel Towers
• 100,000 kilometres of cable – enough to reach the moon and back
• Over 50,000 workers at peak, supported by extensive construction automation