Date: 04.11.2026

Project Overview

National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) is progressing with its proposed brownfield Smelter Expansion Project at Angul, Odisha. The project aims to augment the company's smelting capacity by 0.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), nearly doubling the existing capacity from 0.46 MTPA to approximately 1.0 MTPA. The project has an approved investment of approximately ₹30,000 crore.

Key Approvals and Partnerships

  • The Rehabilitation and Peripheral Development Advisory Committee (RPDAC) meeting was held to facilitate the acquisition of requisite land for the project and to expedite land acquisition, compensation, and rehabilitation issues.
  • NALCO has entered into an agreement with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) for licensing its proprietary smelting technology for the Angul Smelter plant, ensuring adoption of globally proven and energy-efficient aluminium production processes.
  • To meet the additional 1,100 MW power requirement for the expansion, NALCO has partnered with NLC India Limited to establish a 50:50 Joint Venture Company (JVC) for setting up a 4 × 270 MW (1,080 MW) captive thermal power plant.
  • NALCO is envisaging the integration of 200-250 MW of renewable energy into the project ecosystem in keeping with its commitment to sustainability and cleaner energy.

Timeline and Strategic Context

The 0.5 MTPA Aluminium Smelter Expansion Project at Angul is targeted for commissioning during 2030-31. This expansion is part of NALCO's broader initiatives that include the 5th Stream Alumina Refinery Project at Damanjodi. These projects are being pursued with the support of the Government of Odisha and the Ministry of Mines, Government of India.

Future Growth Strategy

The commissioning of the ongoing 5th Stream Refinery is expected to generate surplus alumina even after meeting the expanded capacity requirements of the proposed Angul Smelter. While the surplus alumina will initially be directed towards export markets, NALCO is proactively exploring suitable locations across India for setting up Greenfield aluminium projects. The company is further evaluating the establishment of a new 0.5 MTPA Greenfield aluminium smelter in the country, aimed at adding domestic value by converting surplus alumina into finished aluminium.

Strategic Alignment

This expansion initiative aligns with the Government of India's vision of enhancing domestic aluminium production and promoting value addition within the country. It reinforces NALCO's commitment to the national missions of 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', while supporting the growth and competitiveness of India's aluminium industry. The projects are expected to enhance production capacity, generate employment, and promote regional economic growth.