The Indian government has launched the bidding process for the remaining 10 GWh capacity allocated for Grid Scale Stationary Storage (GSSS) under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage Production. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s domestic battery manufacturing industry, reduce dependence on imports, and create new jobs in the clean energy sector. The bidding process is in its final stages, with the government’s accelerated efforts in finalizing contracts highlighting its commitment to scaling up domestic battery manufacturing.
The PLI-ACC scheme, approved in May 2021, has a financial outlay of ₹18,100 crore for a total 50 GWh ACC capacity. In the first round of allocations, three companies were awarded projects, with a total investment of ₹1,575 crore and generation of 889 jobs. The setup of manufacturing plants is progressing steadily, with AESPL completing prototype testing, OCTPL commissioning 1 GWh capacity, and Reliance New Energy Battery Storage Ltd securing land for its plant.
The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced key measures to support India’s ACC battery manufacturing sector, including the exemption of basic customs duty on critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt, and lithium-ion battery waste and scrap. This move is expected to lower input costs, enhance profit margins, and make Indian-made ACC batteries, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems more affordable.
As India accelerates its transition towards clean energy and e-mobility, advanced battery storage solutions will play a crucial role. The government’s PLI-ACC scheme and budgetary incentives are creating an ecosystem that fosters domestic production, technological innovation, and investment in battery manufacturing. With the latest bidding round underway, India is moving closer to achieving its goal of energy self-reliance, reducing import dependency, and positioning itself as a global leader in battery production.