In Short : India’s lithium-ion battery demand is expected to reach 115 GWh by 2030, fueled by the EV boom and clean energy storage needs, according to a new study. However, challenges in recycling synthetic graphite, a key battery component, pose a major hurdle. Overcoming this barrier is crucial to ensuring a sustainable, efficient, and circular battery value chain in the country.
In Detail : India’s demand for lithium-ion batteries is projected to rise sharply, reaching 115 GWh by 2030. This surge is largely driven by the rapid adoption of electric vehicles and the growing need for energy storage in the renewable power sector. The expansion aligns with India’s clean energy transition and climate goals.
A recent study highlights that while battery production is scaling up, the sustainability of key components, particularly synthetic graphite, is emerging as a concern. Graphite is used in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries and plays a critical role in their performance and longevity.
One of the major challenges identified is the limited development of efficient recycling processes for synthetic graphite. Unlike metals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, graphite recycling remains technologically and economically difficult. This results in a significant portion of graphite ending up as waste.
The study points out that the lack of viable recycling methods not only affects sustainability but also India’s goal of building a circular economy in the battery sector. Import dependence for raw materials like graphite adds further pressure, making recycling an even more strategic need.
To address this issue, investments in R\&D and advanced recycling technologies are essential. Encouraging public-private partnerships and creating supportive policy frameworks could accelerate the development of viable graphite recovery methods.
As India positions itself as a global battery manufacturing hub, overcoming the graphite recycling barrier will be crucial. It will not only help reduce environmental impact but also support long-term resource security and self-reliance in the battery value chain.
