Hindalco Industries, the aluminium rolling and recycling firm, is set to expand its production capacity of aluminium foil, which is essential for rechargeable batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. The company has planned an investment of Rs.800 crore for a new facility near Sambalpur, Odisha. This plant, with an initial output of 25,000 tonnes of durable products crucial for Lithium-ion and Sodium-ion cells, aims to meet the surging demand, expected to reach 40,000 tonnes in India by 2030, driven by the growth of gigafactories.
Satish Pai, Managing Director of Hindalco, emphasized the importance of raw material localization in strategic sectors like EVs and Grid Storage, noting Hindalco’s investments in battery materials and technologies to support Atmanirbhar Bharat. This new battery foil mill is a step towards that goal. The upcoming Odisha unit will enhance its capacity to supply material worldwide.
The company leverages its expertise in metallurgy and experience in sheet and foil rolling, backed by its own aluminium metal supply, to develop high-performance aluminium foils essential for cell makers. It focuses on improving mechanical strength, optimizing thickness, and enhancing surface characteristics. Innovations include new coatings to improve adhesion, reduce resistance, and minimize corrosion, along with tailored solutions for customers.
This project aligns with the government’s green initiatives, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable growth. Hindalco is collaborating with OEMs to co-develop and manufacture critical components, including battery enclosures, motor housings, and structural elements, many of which are novel in the Indian context. These investments mark Hindalco’s transformation from a metal manufacturer to a high-tech metal solutions provider.
The facility will be co-located with a 25 MW solar power plant, with the potential for additional solar energy from a 400 KV National Grid connection. Set for commissioning in July 2025, it will complement Hindalco’s existing operations at the Mouda facility in Maharashtra.
