Hyderabad: In a determined effort to bolster the establishment of an Electric Vehicle (EV) and Energy Storage System (ESS) ecosystem, the Telangana Government is actively pursuing a secure supply of lithium salts. This strategic move was highlighted by IT and Industries Minister KT Rama Rao (KTR) on Friday during his address at ‘The Evolve – A Unique Conclave on Advanced Battery Technologies’.
KTR emphasized the uniqueness of Telangana’s approach, stating, “I don’t think any other State has thought of or envisioned such a huge move forward as we have.” He elaborated on the innovative initiative, revealing that Telangana had taken an unprecedented step by engaging the Telangana State Mineral Development Corporation (TSMDC) to collaborate directly with partners from Latin American countries. This collaboration aims to ensure access to lithium and other essential minerals, a fundamental requirement for sustainable battery production and advanced cell chemistry manufacturing.
Assessing the potential for ACC (Advanced Cell Chemistry) batteries in India, KTR projected a remarkable growth. “The market for ACC batteries in India has the potential to reach 260 gigawatt hours by 2030,” he stated. In a proactive bid to meet this demand, he shared that 60% of this domestic demand is slated to be manufactured within India by 2030. As part of this endeavor, Telangana aspires to host approximately 30 gigawatt-hour lithium-ion facilities by that time.
Acknowledging the importance of a conducive environment for domestic battery manufacturing, KTR emphasized the role of government assistance and planning, with a particular emphasis on the critical contribution of State Governments. To realize these aspirations, he highlighted the launch of the pioneering Telangana Mobility Valley initiative, the first of its kind in India.
Under the umbrella of the Telangana Mobility Valley, KTR underscored the participation of Amara Raja and its commitment to the Mobility Valley’s success. This initiative encompasses the establishment of four manufacturing clusters designed to facilitate various segments including electric vehicles, advanced cell chemistry, batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, engineering, and research facilities. The ultimate aim is to position India as a hub for electrification.
Hyderabad, KTR noted, has emerged as a preferred location for research, development, design, and engineering facilities. He emphasized the significance of Amara Raja’s Evolve and Innovation Centre in contributing to Telangana’s dynamic innovation ecosystem. KTR also highlighted Telangana’s progress in innovative growth through institutions like T-Works, T-Hub, We-Hub, TASK, and TSIC, with a dedicated focus on sustainable and shared mobility.
KTR also drew attention to the establishment of the first energy park in India, anchored by Amara Raja, in Divitipally. The project is rapidly advancing with clusters identified for electric vehicle and component manufacturing in Zaheerabad and Sitarampur, and a research and innovation cluster designated in Enkathala. This thriving ecosystem reinforces Telangana’s position in the EV and energy storage sectors.
KTR concluded by sharing that the Palamuru Rangareddy Lift Irrigation project has received environmental clearance, enabling domestic and industrial water supply in addition to irrigation needs.
Furthering Commitment: Foundation Laid for Amara Raja’s E-Positive Energy Labs
KTR also took a significant step by laying the foundation stone for the advanced energy research and innovation center, ‘E Positive Energy Labs’, a part of Amara Raja Group. This unique center, situated at GMR Aerocity near Hyderabad airport, is equipped with cutting-edge laboratories and testing infrastructure for material research, prototyping, product lifecycle analysis, and proof-of-concept demonstration. KTR’s visit also included the ‘Black Box – Digital Immersive Experience Zone’. The establishment of E-Positive Energy Labs aligns with Telangana’s dedication to technological and energy innovation within the Giga Corridor initiative.
