Introduction
Procurement in the energy sector is much more than the purchase of power or gas; it is a strategic, end-to-end process that drives the development and optimization of infrastructure across multiple energy industries. Procurement in the energy sector encompasses the sourcing of capital goods, construction services, technology, and engineering expertise required to build and maintain infrastructure in areas such as oil and gas, renewable energy, and power generation.
In our recent conversations with Mr. Sinjan Pathak, an experienced consultant in the energy sector, we have gathered insights that illuminate the challenges and opportunities in this sector. This article outlines expert guidance, regulatory challenges, and how Workwise is responding to ensure smooth, cost-effective energy procurement.
Expert Insights from Mr. Sinjan
Understanding the Regulatory Maze
Mr. Sinjan, a seasoned expert in energy procurement, emphasizes that one of the major challenges in India is navigating a complex regulatory environment. He explains that uncertainties in fuel supply and the fragile financial health of DISCOMs often result in delayed payments and increased project risks.
Impact on Project Timelines and Costs
He notes that delays in securing environmental clearances, longer procurement cycles and land acquisition are common. These setbacks not only extend project timelines but also escalate costs due to longer financing periods and potential penalties.
Adapting to Shifting Regulations
As new policies such as stricter emission norms and mandates for domestic renewable components come into effect, procurement professionals must continuously adapt. Mr. Sinjan advises building strong regulatory relationships, attending industry events, and leveraging digital tools for real-time updates.
Key Challenges in Energy Procurement

Uncertainty in Fuel Supply and DISCOM Health
- Fuel Supply Disruptions:
Coal supply disruptions can impact thermal power plant operations, forcing developers to add risk premiums in bids. - Financial Instability of DISCOMs:
The cash flow issues of many DISCOMs often lead to delayed payments, thereby affecting overall project financing.
Delays in Project Approvals
- Environmental and Land Clearances:
Environmental and land clearances drag projects into endless delays, this results in long procurement cycles. Long approval times and complex land acquisition processes push timelines and inflate costs. - Long Procurement Cycle:
A long procurement cycle refers to delays in approvals, tendering, vendor selection, and material delivery. It increases costs, and disrupts project timelines, making procurement a major bottleneck in large-scale projects.
Shifting Policy Landscape
- Evolving Emission Norms:
New environmental standards and mandates for domestically produced components require continuous adaptation of procurement strategies. - Best Practices for Compliance:
Staying ahead of these changes means frequent training, digital monitoring, and proactive networking with regulatory bodies.
Strategies and Best Practices to Overcome Challenges
Proactive Monitoring and Digital Tools
- Real-Time Alerts:
Keeping abreast of regulatory changes through automated alerts and industry updates. - Data Analytics:
Leveraging big data to forecast potential delays and cost escalations due to policy changes.
Building Collaborative Networks
- Industry Forums and Conferences:
Participating in events to exchange ideas and best practices with regulatory experts and peers. - Regulatory Consultations:
Collaborating with consultants who specialize in compliance to ensure that procurement strategies remain robust and flexible.
Adapting Procurement Strategies
- Flexible Contracts:
Risk management clauses and buffer periods help manage regulatory delays or supply disruptions without derailing projects. - Early Engagement with Regulators:
Proactively securing environmental and land clearances prevents last-minute approval delays. - Expand Vendor Pool:
Connecting with more vendors ensures better options, competitive pricing, and supply security. - Clear Vendor Communication:
Providing precise purchase requirements improves vendor response times and procurement efficiency.

How Workwise Is Paving the Way Forward
Empowering Procurement Professionals
Workwise is a B2B procurement platform for contractors, project heads, and procurement teams in the energy sector. It simplifies vendor discovery, technical evaluation, and procurement, making buying faster, cost-effective, and efficient with digital solutions
The Problem & How Workwise Solves It
Workwise streamlines procurement, optimizing vendor and price discovery, and technical evaluation for efficiency
- Smart Vendor Matching – 10,000+ PSU-approved vendors, automated shortlisting
- Price Discovery & Negotiation – Auto comparison charts, reverse auctions, and automated follow-ups
- Technical Evaluation Module – Standardized supplier comparisons, reducing back-and-forth delays
- End-to-End Procurement Automation – AI-driven RFQs, ERP integration (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft D365), workflow automation
Our Presence at India Energy Week 2025
The energy sector faces procurement challenges like regulatory delays and supply disruptions. At IEW, we’re showcasing our platform to streamline procurement, enhance compliance, and drive efficiency in energy procurement.
Associate Sponsorship and Exhibition
We’re proud to be an associate sponsor at India Energy Week 2025, India’s largest energy event, happening from February 11-14 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Join Us for a Live Demo
Visit us at Booth 2L 19 to see how our app is transforming procurement in energy and heavy industries. Chat with our experts, watch a live demo, and explore how Workwise is driving change.
Conclusion
India’s energy procurement sector is evolving with regulatory shifts and market dynamics. Expert insights from Mr. Sinjan highlight the need for agile, data-driven strategies. Workwise empowers professionals to streamline compliance, optimize procurement, and drive a sustainable energy future