Wed Sep 18 03:07:57 UTC 2024: ## Hindalco Industries Invests Rs 2,450 Crore in Copper Projects in Gujarat, Eyes Solar Module Manufacturing

**Vadodara, Gujarat:** Hindalco Industries’ copper division is set to make a significant investment in Gujarat, with plans to establish a state-of-the-art copper and e-waste recycling facility at Dahej and a new copper tube manufacturing unit in Vadodara.

The e-waste recycling facility, expected to be operational in the coming years, will be India’s first of its kind and will process an impressive 300-350 kilotonnes of scrap and e-waste annually. This facility will not only reduce Hindalco’s dependence on imported copper concentrates (currently at 1.3 million tonnes) but also help the company recover around 200 kilotonnes of copper per year. The initial investment for this project is estimated at Rs 2,000 crore, with potential for further expansion in the future. The plant will also extract precious metals like silver and gold, adding further value.

Alongside the recycling facility, Hindalco plans to increase its copper smelting capacity in Dahej, currently one of the largest in the world. The company aims to add 250-280 kilotonnes of capacity, leading to a 50-60% increase in production to meet India’s growing demand for copper.

In Vadodara, Hindalco will establish a Rs 450 crore copper tube manufacturing unit, producing copper tubes primarily used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This unit will expand Hindalco’s current Waghodia plant capacity from 25,000 tonnes to 75,000 tonnes, requiring an additional investment of Rs 1,500 crore.

Adding to its ambitious plans, Hindalco is exploring the possibility of entering the solar module manufacturing space. The company is currently evaluating a five-year plan for this project, which is yet to receive board approval and finalise its capital expenditure. Industry experts believe this venture aligns well with Hindalco’s established position in aluminum manufacturing.

With these strategic investments, Hindalco Industries is positioning itself to play a key role in India’s growing copper and renewable energy sectors, while contributing to environmental sustainability through its e-waste recycling initiative.

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