Waaree Gigafactory: AP Secures ₹8,175 Cr Battery Plant

A Major Boost for India's Clean Energy Sector

In a significant move to bolster India's self-reliance in clean energy manufacturing, Waaree Energies has announced plans to establish the country's largest integrated lithium-ion battery Gigafactory in Andhra Pradesh. The project, involving an investment of ₹8,175 crore, is set to position the state as a leading hub for advanced energy storage solutions and reduce India's dependence on imported battery components.

Project Scope and Investment Details

The greenfield facility will be located at Rambilli in the Anakapalli district. With a planned capacity of 16 GWh, the plant will be a fully integrated unit, covering the entire battery value chain. This includes the manufacturing of advanced lithium-ion cells, the assembly of battery packs, and the production of large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The comprehensive scope of the project underscores a strategic effort to build domestic capabilities from the ground up. The substantial investment of ₹8,175 crore highlights the scale and ambition of the venture, which is expected to be fully operational by July 2027.

State Government Support and Approval

The project has received in-principle approval from the Andhra Pradesh State Investment Promotion Board, a body chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. This swift approval signals strong government backing for clean-technology manufacturing. To facilitate the development of this large-scale facility, the state government has also allotted 300 acres of land. This support is crucial for ensuring the project proceeds on schedule and meets its operational targets.

Economic and Employment Impact

The establishment of the Gigafactory is projected to have a substantial positive impact on the local economy. It is expected to generate approximately 3,000 direct jobs in the Anakapalli region, providing a significant boost to local employment. The development will also likely create numerous indirect jobs in ancillary industries and services, contributing to the overall industrial growth of the district and the state.

Aligning with State and National Goals

This investment aligns perfectly with the Andhra Pradesh government's Integrated Clean Energy Policy, which aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for clean energy. State officials have noted that after attracting investments in renewable power generation and solar manufacturing, this Gigafactory represents the next logical step in backward integration into the critical sector of energy storage. Nara Lokesh, a state minister, emphasized that the plant will play a vital role in strengthening domestic manufacturing and enhancing India's energy security. The project also supports the central government's 'Make in India' initiative, which seeks to develop robust domestic manufacturing capabilities in strategic sectors.

Key Project Highlights

The Strategic Importance of Domestic Battery Manufacturing

Large-scale domestic battery manufacturing is essential for India's clean energy transition. It provides the necessary infrastructure to support the expansion of intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind by ensuring grid stability. Furthermore, a reliable supply of locally produced batteries is critical for the growing electric mobility market, helping to reduce costs and improve the accessibility of electric vehicles. By building this capacity within the country, India can enhance its strategic manufacturing independence and reduce its vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

Positioning Andhra Pradesh as a Clean-Tech Hub

With this landmark investment, Andhra Pradesh reinforces its position as a leading destination for clean-technology manufacturing in India. The state's proactive policy support, efficient execution, and development of world-class industrial infrastructure have made it an attractive location for major industrial projects. The Waaree Gigafactory adds a crucial component to the state's burgeoning clean energy ecosystem, which now spans power generation, equipment manufacturing, and advanced energy storage. This integrated approach is expected to attract further investments and solidify the state's role in powering India's sustainable future.