Strategic Copper: JSW's Odisha Smelter Secures India's Supply

JSW Group plans to establish a copper smelter in Odisha with a capacity of 500,000 tonnes by 2028, sourcing copper concentrate from Peru and Chile. This initiative marks its entry into the copper business, following a ₹2,600 crore (USD 301 million) investment in copper mining operations in collaboration with Hindustan Copper.

By 2033-34, JSW aims to double its smelting capacity to one million tonnes, with a total investment of ₹12,000 crore.

The copper smelting facility will also support the company’s electric vehicle and battery production units. India, which heavily depends on copper imports, currently produces around 555,000 tonnes of refined copper annually, while domestic consumption exceeds 750,000 tonnes.

Recognizing copper as a critical mineral for India's green energy transition, the government anticipates a significant rise in demand by 2030, driven by electric vehicles and renewable energy initiatives.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.