The Hydrocarbon Development Institute of Pakistan (HDIP) is the country’s leading public sector research and development (R&D) organization in the energy and petroleum sector. Operating under the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), HDIP plays a key role in promoting energy efficiency, conducting exploration support, and ensuring fuel quality compliance across Pakistan.
What is HDIP?
Established in 1975 and restructured under Act No. 1 of 2006, HDIP is responsible for technical evaluation, product testing, and energy policy support. It acts as the scientific backbone for petroleum-related activities across upstream (exploration) and downstream (refining and product quality control) sectors.
Key Functions and Objectives
HDIP’s mandate is vast and strategically important. Below is a quick overview of its core functions:
| Sector | Services Provided |
|---|---|
| Upstream | Basin analysis, geological surveys, geochemical evaluations |
| Downstream | Fuel testing (crude, petrol, diesel, LPG), quality certification |
| CNG Sector | CNG operator training, cylinder testing, safety compliance |
| R&D | Alternative fuels, lubricant formulations, environmental safety |
| Data & Policy | Publishes Energy Yearbook, National Energy Database |
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Labs and Regional Presence
HDIP operates seven regional petroleum testing laboratories located in:
- Islamabad (Headquarters)
- Lahore
- Karachi
- Multan
- Peshawar
- Quetta
- Chaklala
All labs are ISO 9001:2015 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certified, ensuring accurate fuel testing per international standards. These labs also support Euro-5 fuel compliance in Pakistan.
Major Achievements
HDIP has been instrumental in advancing sustainable and regulatory practices in Pakistan’s petroleum industry. Some notable contributions include:
- Reassessment of Pakistan’s hydrocarbon potential in Sulaiman, Potwar, and Kirthar basins
- Introduction of E-10 ethanol-blended fuel
- Development of eco-friendly two-stroke engine oil
- Launch of extensive CNG training and certification programs
- Digitization of the National Energy Database
Latest Developments
In recent years, HDIP has undergone major modernization. As of 2021–2024, significant projects have included:
- Rs. 303 million lab upgrade for Euro‑5 fuel testing
- Rs. 270 million worth of modernization across all testing centers
- CNG Cylinder Testing Lab upgrades under OGRA guidelines
- Expansion of public-sector R&D in clean fuel technologies
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Leadership and Governance
HDIP is led by Shahbaz Tahir Nadeem (Acting Director General), along with directors and technical experts in petroleum labs, gas operations, IT, finance, and training services.
Publications and Training
The institute publishes:
- Pakistan Energy Yearbook
- Pakistan Journal of Hydrocarbon Research
It also offers training programs in:
- Petroleum geochemistry
- Biostratigraphy
- CNG mechanics and safety
- Basin modeling and exploration techniques
Conclusion
The Hydrocarbon Development Institute of Pakistan is a key pillar in shaping the country’s energy landscape. From ensuring fuel quality to supporting exploration and environmental research, HDIP continues to serve as Pakistan’s premier institution for hydrocarbon innovation, policy, and public safety. Stay tuned with Bloom Pakistan
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