India is set to witness a significant leap in energy self-sufficiency with the establishment of its first lithium refinery and battery manufacturing plant in Additional Butibori, Nagpur, Maharashtra. With an investment of ₹42,532 crores, this project is a major step toward strengthening India’s position in the global energy sector while reducing reliance on lithium imports.
Led by Sunil Joshi, Chairman, and Vedansh Joshi, Managing Director of Vardhaan Lithium (I) Pvt. Ltd., this initiative marks a critical milestone in India’s clean energy transition. Spanning 500 acres, the facility will have a refining capacity of 60,000 tonnes of lithium per year and a battery production capacity of 20 GWh. This large-scale investment is expected to power India’s electric vehicles, homes, and industries, significantly boosting the country’s lithium-ion battery ecosystem.
Advancing ‘Make in India’ and Energy Independence
Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision, this project is set to create a domestic supply chain for lithium, addressing a crucial gap in India’s energy infrastructure. As lithium remains a key component in battery storage solutions for electric vehicles and renewable energy applications, the initiative strengthens India’s commitment to self-reliance in critical energy resources.
With technology partnerships from the USA and Europe, the Nagpur facility will adhere to global quality standards, ensuring world-class lithium refining and battery production capabilities.
Leadership Driving Industrial Growth
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has played a vital role in securing this milestone project for the state. The agreement, signed at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, highlights Maharashtra’s commitment to global industrial collaborations and its ambition to become a hub for clean energy technologies. The state’s proactive approach in facilitating this investment underscores its leadership in India’s energy transition.
Economic and Social Impact
Beyond its industrial significance, the lithium refinery and battery factory are expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, driving economic growth in the region. The establishment of such a large-scale facility will also attract ancillary industries, fostering a robust ecosystem around clean energy manufacturing.
As global demand for lithium-ion batteries continues to rise, driven by the shift toward electric mobility and renewable energy storage, India’s first lithium refinery positions the country as a key player in the global energy market. By reducing dependence on imports and investing in advanced technology, this initiative marks a transformative step in India’s journey toward energy security and sustainability.