
India Invests Rs 2,814 Crore in Battery Supply Chain with New Refineries
What Happened?
India's Union cabinet approved a Rs 2,814 crore plan for four lithium and nickel refineries, aiming to boost domestic battery material production. This move addresses both supply and demand in the battery sector.
Key points
- The plan includes building India's first commercial-scale lithium plants.
- The cabinet also approved Rs 14,500 crore for energy storage projects.
- The Capex Support Scheme will cover 30% of capital costs for the refineries.
- India currently imports all its lithium, nickel, and cobalt.
- China controls about 65% of global refining capacity for battery-grade lithium.
Key insights
- If successful, the scheme could lead to significant domestic production of battery materials by 2030.
- India's ability to refine battery metals will determine its position in the global supply chain.
- The government's approach may attract foreign investment in the battery sector.
Why it matters
This investment could enhance India's self-sufficiency in battery materials, reducing reliance on imports.
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Source
India Today