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India Must Accelerate Battery Storage Strategy

India’s clean energy future hinges on building a strong domestic battery ecosystem, particularly lithium-ion, which powers everything from smartphones to electric vehicles and grid stabilization. Demand is expected to exceed 260 GWh due to commitments in transport, power, and decarbonization. While global players like China, South Korea, and Europe dominate the battery supply chain with advanced gigafactories and mineral security, India is lagging despite efforts under the ACC-PLI scheme. Current policies remain rigid and outdated, failing to deliver the desired momentum.

A fresh strategy is needed, shifting from capacity targets to capability-building in design, manufacturing, and innovation. The article suggests a five-point agenda: (1) focus on integrated, high-precision manufacturing and product design; (2) replicate the success of India’s electronics PLI with targeted subsidies and marketing; (3) make PLI policies flexible and risk-sharing; (4) foster innovation through startups, R&D, and a “Bharat cell design” challenge; and (5) adopt phased duty regimes that encourage local assembly, then move up the value chain to cell and raw material processing.

By aligning government support with industry leaders like Tata, Reliance, Ola, and Amara Raja, India can reduce dependence on imports and emerge as a competitive global hub for high-quality, affordable batteries.