Hindustan Zinc Plans to Raise Renewable Energy Contribution to 70% by 2027

Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, is accelerating its sustainability efforts by targeting a renewable energy contribution of over 70% of its total power requirements by 2027. The company aims to achieve this by expanding its renewable power delivery agreement from 450 MW to 530 MW, which will enhance its capacity to source round-the-clock renewable energy and significantly reduce its carbon emissions.

The company has already made substantial progress in energy efficiency, saving over 0.8 million Gigajoules (GJ) in FY24, equivalent to powering around 70,000 households for a year. This has been achieved through initiatives such as upgrading infrastructure and transitioning to cleaner alternatives like piped natural gas. Hindustan Zinc has also reduced its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 14% compared to 2020, all while increasing production volumes. These efforts reinforce the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact and fostering sustainable manufacturing practices.

Ms. Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc, emphasized, “Sustainable practices and good business sense are two sides of the same coin. Our energy and climate action initiatives are aimed at creating long-term value for our stakeholders while contributing to a healthier planet. We are committed to adopting renewable energy sources, optimizing resource use, and investing in innovative technologies that align with global climate action goals.”

As part of its focus on energy efficiency, Hindustan Zinc has implemented a range of initiatives, including revamping turbines at captive power plants, enhancing cellhouse efficiencies, and installing variable frequency drives. The company has also shifted from high-speed diesel to piped natural gas, further reducing its carbon footprint.

Hindustan Zinc is the first Indian company in the metals and mining sector to secure validated Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) targets aligned with the 1.5°C global warming threshold. Additionally, the company has earned a Leadership Band (A-) designation from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) for its efforts in water security and climate change.

A subsidiary of Vedanta Group, Hindustan Zinc is a leading player in the global metals and mining industry. The company supplies products to over 40 countries and holds a market share of approximately 75% in India’s primary zinc market. Recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023, Hindustan Zinc continues to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future, with a commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.