Adani’s Mega Copper Plant Begins Operations in Gujarat

The Adani Group has announced the start of the first phase of the world’s largest single-location copper manufacturing plant at Mundra in Gujarat. The facility, owned by Kutch Copper (a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd), will help reduce India’s dependence on copper imports and support the energy transition.

Massive Production Capacity

• The first phase will produce 0.5 million tonnes of refined copper annually.
• The full-scale capacity of 1 million tonnes is expected by FY29 (March 2029).
• India joins nations like China in rapidly expanding copper production, a crucial metal for the transition away from fossil fuels.

Rising Domestic Copper Demand

• India’s per capita copper consumption is around 0.6 kg, compared to the global average of 3.2 kg.
• The domestic copper demand is expected to double by 2030, driven by clean energy systems, electric vehicles, and associated applications.

Adani’s Diversification and Green Initiatives

• The Adani Group is investing heavily in energy transition, where copper plays a vital role.
• The copper business is a strategic fit, as the group expands into adjacent areas.
• The plant uses innovative green technology and has implemented measures like zero-liquid discharge and desalinated water for operations.

Boosting Self-Reliance and Reducing Imports

• India’s copper production has been unable to meet the demand, leading to higher imports.
• In FY23, India imported a record 1,81,000 tonnes of copper, while exports plummeted to 30,000 tonnes.
• The plant will produce valuable byproducts like gold, silver, selenium, platinum, sulphuric acid, and phosphoric acid, reducing imports.

The Adani Group’s foray into copper manufacturing is a natural extension of its trading, mining, logistics, infrastructure, and manufacturing businesses. The mega plant aims to boost India’s self-reliance and support the nation’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2070.