Hindustan Zinc Limited is exploring the potential of zinc applications in batteries to support the global energy transition. Zinc-based batteries present a more stable and safer alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Unlike lithium, which is less stable and poses combustion risks, zinc offers a stable chemistry. Moreover, zinc is abundant in India, reducing the need for costly imports and conserving foreign exchange. Zinc is also significantly more affordable than lithium, costing over four times less. These batteries provide long-duration storage, superior energy performance, lower ownership costs, and reliable operation in various weather conditions, making them versatile for many applications.
Hindustan Zinc's zinc-based batteries have already proven successful in high-end sectors such as defence, aerospace, marine, renewable energy, and critical infrastructure like data centres and 5G telecom.
Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, noted the challenges posed by the lack of domestic lithium availability and the safety concerns of lithium batteries. Zinc, he argued, offers a safer and more stable alternative. Hindustan Zinc has partnered with US-based Aesir Tech, specialising in next-generation zinc battery technology, and is also collaborating with premier academic institutions in India to advance battery research.
A recent Bloomberg NEF report projects a 21% annual growth in the global energy storage market, reaching 442 GWh by 2030. Zinc's use in batteries dates back to the early 1800s, with zinc-carbon batteries already in widespread use. Emerging zinc-based chemistries, such as zinc-manganese, zinc-ion, nickel-zinc, and zinc-air, are rapidly developing.
They operate across a wide temperature range and use non-flammable, non-toxic materials, ensuring safety. Additionally, they are recyclable and have a greenhouse gas footprint six times lower than other technologies. As the world advances towards renewable energy, Hindustan Zinc aims to meet the growing demand for alternative energy solutions by providing critical raw materials for clean technology development.
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