Adani’s new-age businesses transforming the India story

Business Desk Published: 26 September 2023, 02:24 PM
Adani’s new-age businesses transforming the India story

The Adani Group has been at the forefront of India’s economic development for over three decades, leaving an indelible mark across various sectors. Its expansive portfolio spans ports, airports, logistics, infrastructure, energy, technology, and sustainability initiatives.

The Group’s journey commenced with a modest presence in the port sector but it has since burgeoned into a conglomerate that touches nearly every facet of India’s economy. From critical infrastructure like ports, airports, logistics, and transportation networks to vital sectors like defence, aerospace, renewable energy, and digital technology, the group has diversified its assets, fostering innovation and growth.

In response to the surging demand for data consumption and storage in India’s thriving digital economy, Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) embarked on a strategic partnership with EdgeConneX to establish cutting-edge data centers. AdaniConneX, a 50:50 joint venture, aims to support India’s digital transformation with a remarkable 1 GW capacity, delivering hyper-scale to hyperlocal data center solutions. These state-of-the-art data centers will be set up in Chennai, Hyderabad, Noida, Pune, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with Chennai 1 already operational.

Recognizing the environmental impact of data centers and the pressing need for sustainable solutions, the Adani Group is dedicated to reducing its ESG footprint. This commitment is underpinned by innovation in energy efficiency and storage, complemented by the Group’s global expertise in renewable energy and emerging green hydrogen capabilities.

Data centers are notorious energy consumers and emission sources. AdaniConneX addresses this by promoting 24x7 carbon-free energy through an integrated mix of solar, wind, battery storage, and pump-hydro energy storage. This not only ensures dependable clean energy but also mitigates the variability associated with intermittent sources, such as solar and wind.

The Adani Group is also making substantial investments in renewable energy, with plans to become the world’s largest power generator in this sector by 2030. At present, the cost of renewable energy stands at less than Rs. 2.5 per unit (KWh), a figure that the group aims to further reduce in its quest to produce low-cost hydrogen. A monumental investment of up to $50 billion over the next decade is earmarked to establish a fully integrated green hydrogen ecosystem in India. The initial phase will see the production of 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen, eventually scaling up to 3 million tonnes. Despite a previous partner’s withdrawal, the Adani Group remains steadfast in its commitment to this visionary project.

Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL), an arm of AEL, is at the forefront of the green hydrogen project. The group’s expansive solar module manufacturing capabilities at Mundra SEZ in Gujarat are set to expand to an impressive 10 GW per annum. These modules, coupled with the production of metallurgical grade silicon, polysilicon, ingots, wafers, and cells, will contribute significantly to harnessing solar energy. Sea water desalination will ensure a sustainable water source for the electrolyzers used in green hydrogen production.

The Adani Group’s competitive edge is rooted in its ability to create synergies across sectors, complete ownership of extensive land parcels nationwide, robust project management capabilities, and access to abundant resources. These advantages position the group favourably in diverse markets.

In the ever-evolving landscape of India’s economy, the Adani Group has emerged as a symbol of innovation, diversification, and sustainability. Its journey is emblematic of India’s progress toward a greener, more prosperous future. As it expands its horizons and continues to champion sustainable development, the Group remains a pivotal player in shaping India’s economic destiny.-Press Release