Vedanta Aluminium has signed a Gas Sales Agreement (GSA) with GAIL Gas Ltd, a subsidiary of GAIL (India) Ltd. The agreement aims to supply natural gas to Vedanta’s Jharsuguda smelter, the world’s largest aluminium plant, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2025.
The switch to natural gas is poised to substantially lower the carbon footprint of the smelter, cutting emissions by approximately 47,292 ton of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) annually. This initiative aligns with Vedanta’s commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050, supported by a dual strategy of ramping up renewable energy usage and creating carbon sinks through extensive afforestation.
The partnership will also fuel Vedanta’s upcoming 430 kilo ton per annum (KTPA) cast house at Jharsuguda, designed to produce 250 KTPA of billets and 180 KTPA of other value-added products. GAIL Gas Ltd will construct a dedicated 7.5 km pipeline to supply approximately 32,000 standard cubic mtr (SCM) of natural gas per day, under a five-year contract.
Speaking on the occasion, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd, said:
“At Vedanta, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our partnership with GAIL Gas Ltd is a testament to our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing cleaner energy solutions. By transitioning to natural gas at our Jharsuguda operations—the largest aluminium plant in the world—we are taking a decisive step toward aligning our operations with India’s clean energy vision and our ESG goals. This partnership is a step forward in our journey to grow responsibly and create a greener future for the generations to come.”
Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer, Vedanta Aluminium, also emphasized the importance of the collaboration:
“Vedanta Aluminium’s partnership with GAIL exemplifies our ambition to lead the aluminium industry in reducing environmental impact. This agreement is in line with our efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance our production capabilities, contributing to India’s growing demand for aluminium in critical sectors. By embracing cleaner energy solutions, we aim to lead the way in creating a more sustainable future for the aluminium industry and our communities.”
The natural gas-powered cast house is projected to achieve a 62 per cent monthly reduction in carbon emissions, amounting to 3,941 tCO₂e and contributing to Vedanta Aluminium’s broader goal of sustainable, low-emission production. This initiative underscores Vedanta’s commitment to advancing India’s clean energy vision and driving responsible growth in the aluminium sector.