Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, May 19: Reliance Industries Ltd. is reportedly in discussions with Chinese battery giant CATL and other international suppliers to procure components for battery energy storage systems as the company accelerates its renewable energy expansion plans.

According to reports, the talks could help Reliance secure an additional major source of battery components for its upcoming energy storage facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat, which is expected to become India’s largest such complex.

The proposed sourcing arrangement is likely to complement supplies from Xiamen Hithium Energy Storage Technology Co., with whom Reliance already has a partnership. However, reports said the collaboration has faced hurdles in recent months.

The development comes at a time when Reliance has reportedly encountered challenges in obtaining complete technological know-how for manufacturing lithium-ion battery cells, particularly amid tighter Chinese restrictions on exports of core battery technologies.

As a result, the Mukesh Ambani-led conglomerate is said to be placing greater emphasis on assembling large battery energy storage systems using pre-manufactured cells sourced from global suppliers.

The Jamnagar facility forms a key part of Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani’s clean energy strategy aimed at positioning the company as a major player in India’s renewable energy transition.

Energy storage systems are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening India’s power grid as the country works towards achieving its ambitious target of 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Responding to reports, a Reliance spokesperson said the company continuously evaluates various business opportunities but does not comment on market speculation or rumours. The spokesperson added that any necessary disclosures would be made to stock exchanges as required.

CATL, formally known as Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. and currently the world’s largest battery manufacturer, did not immediately respond to media queries regarding the discussions.