India's gas regulator unveils ambitious expansion plan for household connections

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has unveiled its third phase of the National PNG Drive, a comprehensive programme designed to accelerate household access to piped natural gas across India. The initiative targets the addition of 50 lakh new piped gas connections by the end of fiscal year 2027, substantially expanding the consumer base for cleaner cooking fuel.

Beyond new connections, the drive seeks to activate existing dormant accounts within the piped gas network. A key objective involves converting 40 lakh unbilled connections—accounts that exist but remain inactive—into engaged users who actively consume piped natural gas. This conversion strategy aims to unlock latent demand and improve utilisation of existing infrastructure.

The regulator has also set a target to register 50 lakh additional users through the programme's conclusion in 2027. This multi-pronged approach combines expansion into new areas with activation of untapped consumer segments, addressing both supply-side infrastructure development and demand-side consumer engagement.

The National PNG Drive 3.0 forms part of India's broader energy transition strategy, promoting the adoption of cleaner cooking fuels and reducing reliance on liquefied petroleum gas and biomass. By targeting household consumers across multiple segments, the initiative reflects government efforts to improve air quality and energy access in both urban and rural communities.