The various R&D activities carried out by PCRA are:
- To invite and sponsor Research and Development projects from prestigious Research Institutions, Technical Institutions, CSIR Laboratories etc. primarily aimed at petroleum conservation and environmental protection through development of fuel efficient technologies, processes, equipments, appliances etc. in different sectors of economy viz. industrial, transport, agriculture and domestic. On successful completion of R & D projects, PCRA helps in commercializing the technologies, processes, equipments, appliances etc. through technology transfer to interested entrepreneurs
- To submit annual information on PCRA activities to Ministry of Science & Technology for approval as a scientific and industrial research organization
- To participate in meetings of BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Sectional Committees for review/ updation of various BIS standards for oil and gas burning appliances, petroleum products and lubricants etc.