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India's Chemical Giants Eye Global Battery Race
22 Jul
Summary
- US FEOC rules are pushing battery firms to find non-China suppliers.
- Neogen Chemicals builds an integrated electrolyte platform.
- Archean Chemicals bets on zinc-bromide flow batteries for grid storage.
The US Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) regulation is significantly altering global battery supply chains, creating a structural opportunity for Indian specialty chemical firms. These rules may disqualify batteries linked to designated foreign entities, primarily China, from US clean energy tax credits. This is compelling manufacturers to seek alternative suppliers outside China.
Neogen Chemicals is constructing India's battery electrolyte platform, integrating electrolyte production, salts, and additives. By November 2025, a joint venture aims to produce non-FEOC-compliant LiPF6 salt. Production is anticipated to commence in the first half of FY27.
Acutaas Chemicals is establishing India's first electrolyte additives platform, having commercialized key additives like Vinylene Carbonate and Fluoroethylene Carbonate. Phase two of its battery chemicals project is expected by FY27, with global customer validation already secured.
Archean Chemicals is pursuing a different strategy, investing in alternative energy storage technologies. The company holds a stake in Offgrid Energy Labs, developing zinc-bromide flow batteries for long-duration stationary storage, distinct from lithium-ion applications.
