Vedanta Aluminium deploys India’s largest fleet of electric forklifts

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, has expanded its fleet of electric lithium-ion forklifts to 66 units, strengthening its position as the largest deployer of electric lithium-ion forklifts in India. The company has deployed an additional 22 electric forklifts at its smelter operations in Jharsuguda, Odisha, as well as at its BALCO smelter in Chhattisgarh. This expansion bolsters the decarbonisation commitment of Vedanta Aluminium.

The forklifts come equipped with faster and safer battery charging capabilities, significantly enhancing operational efficiency while contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions. These forklifts are expected to lower the company’s carbon footprint by potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2,500 tonnes of CO2 equivalent, annually. It is estimated that this shift will save over 8.4 lakh litres of diesel per year, marking a substantial step towards sustainability.

The company has committed to decarbonizing 100% of its light motor vehicle (LMV) fleet by 2030. This ongoing effort stands as a testimony to Vedanta Aluminium’s constant endeavour to evaluate and deploy emerging technologies towards decarbonising its operations. Vedanta is among India’s pioneering companies to adopt sustainable operational practices, particularly in material handling.

The expansion of electric forklift fleet is yet another step Vedanta Aluminium’s journey to achieve Net Zero by 2050. To fulfil this commitment, the company is adopting a two-fold strategy of reducing its carbon footprint by increasing operational excellence and increasing renewables in its energy mix, while also offsetting its carbon footprint through extensive afforestation efforts. Through its operations, the company is enabling wider global access to responsibly-produced, high-quality aluminium to ensure a greener future for the planet.

“Sustainability is a core business imperative for us, driving our commitment to operational excellence through continuous innovation. The deployment of 66 electric lithium-ion forklifts marks a milestone in accelerating our transition to a Net Zero future,” says John Slaven, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium.