India has taken a major step towards strengthening its electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage ecosystem with the announcement of the country’s first large-scale lithium refinery in Telangana. The project will be developed through a joint venture between Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) and Altmin Private Limited, with a total investment of ₹2,250 crore.
The upcoming refinery is designed to produce 30,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) of lithium carbonate by 2027, a key raw material used in lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are critical for electric vehicles, renewable energy storage systems, and consumer electronics.
Strategic Importance for India’s EV Sector
At present, India is heavily dependent on imports for lithium and lithium-based battery materials. The establishment of this refinery is expected to significantly reduce that reliance by enabling domestic processing of lithium, thereby strengthening India’s EV supply chain.
Lithium carbonate is one of the most essential components in battery manufacturing, and local availability is expected to support the growth of battery cell manufacturing units under India’s clean mobility and energy transition goals.
Boost to Domestic Manufacturing and Jobs
The refinery is expected to play a crucial role in developing a localized battery ecosystem in India. It will support downstream industries such as battery pack assembly, EV manufacturing, and energy storage solutions. In addition to reducing import costs, the project is likely to generate direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region.
Telangana’s selection as the project location aligns with the state’s focus on attracting investments in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and emerging technologies.
With electric mobility gaining momentum across the country, demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to rise sharply over the next decade. The Telangana lithium refinery marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward energy security, industrial self-sufficiency, and a cleaner transportation future.