Is NALCO Expanding and Adopting Green Power for Viksit Bharat Vision?
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Synopsis
NALCO is set to expand its aluminium production capacity and explore green energy solutions, aiming to align with PM Modi's ambitious vision for a developed India by 2047. This expansion signifies a major investment in sustainable technology and infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- NALCO plans a 0.5 million tonne expansion.
- Investment of Rs 30,000 crore announced.
- Focus on green power adoption.
- Project completion targeted by 2030.
- NALCO's competitive edge over rivals.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 19 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ underscores a strong focus on infrastructure development, comprehensive economic growth, and reaching net-zero emissions as central goals, as stated by NALCO’s CMD Brijendra Pratap Singh on Monday. He mentioned that in line with this vision, "we are planning an expansion of 0.5 million tonnes and are also exploring the adoption of green power".
The head of the aluminum giant NALCO revealed to IANS that as part of their 2030 strategy, "we are proposing an investment of Rs 30,000 crore, which encompasses a 0.5 million tonne smelter and a 1,080 MW thermal power plant". These represent the two key units in our expansion plans.
"The preparation of the DPR has already commenced, and we expect to finalize the consultant's appointment this month, aiming for Board approval by July or August this year", he added.
To meet the increasing demand within the domestic market, NALCO aims to boost its aluminum smelting capacity by 0.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) at its Angul smelter through brownfield expansion. The company is committed to an investment of Rs 30,000 crore for a new 0.5 million tonne aluminum smelter and a 1,080 MW power plant.
The anticipated expansion will utilize top-tier, environmentally sustainable technology that aligns with global standards, with project completion targeted for 2030.
When queried about NALCO's three-year vision for capacity growth, Singh emphasized that the immediate focus is on the operationalization of the fifth stream expansion of the Alumina plant, alongside the commencement of activities at the Pottangi mines.
"This is our primary target. We plan to initiate the commissioning of the fifth stream in June this year, with operations at the Pottangi mines also set to begin in June. Additionally, we are planning a wire rod mill with a capacity of 60,000 tonnes for downstream and value-added products", he informed IANS.
In response to a question, he highlighted that NALCO enjoys an advantage over private sector competitors like Vedanta and Hindalco, due to its ownership of bauxite and coal mines, which significantly lowers raw material costs and enhances backward integration, providing the company a competitive edge.
Point of View
This expansion by NALCO is a strategic move that aligns with India's broader goals for sustainable development and economic growth. As a leader in the aluminium sector, NALCO's commitment to green energy and infrastructure development is commendable and essential for achieving a sustainable future.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NALCO's expansion plan?
NALCO plans to expand its aluminum production capacity by 0.5 million tonnes and invest Rs 30,000 crore in a new smelter and thermal power plant.
What is the timeline for NALCO's expansion?
The expansion project is expected to be completed by 2030, with preliminary steps like the DPR preparation already underway.
How does NALCO's expansion align with national goals?
NALCO's efforts are in line with Prime Minister Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', focusing on infrastructure, economic growth, and sustainability.
