NALCO eyes sustained growth on strong aluminium demand; targets Rs 2,000 crore capex in 2026

National Aluminium Company Ltd (NALCO) is optimistic about sustaining its revenue momentum, supported by favourable metal prices and rising demand from key sectors, according to its CMD, Brijendra Pratap Singh.

Speaking on the company’s financial performance and outlook to ANI, Singh said NALCO recorded revenues of around Rs 16,000 crore in the previous financial year and expects growth to continue. He noted that aluminium metal contributes nearly 70 per cent of the company’s total revenue, with domestic demand being driven largely by the power sector, which accounts for about 40 per cent of consumption. He added that increasing usage of aluminium in infrastructure development, electric vehicles, construction, and packaging is expected to further strengthen demand in the coming years.

Highlighting the challenges facing the industry, the CMD pointed to sustainability as a key concern, particularly the production of green aluminium. He explained that power constitutes nearly 35–40 per cent of aluminium production costs, making access to affordable and reliable green energy critical for reducing carbon emissions. While transitioning to round-the-clock renewable power is essential, Singh said high costs related to energy storage and transmission continue to pose significant hurdles.

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Outlining NALCO’s investment plans, Singh said the company has earmarked an annual capital expenditure of around Rs 2,000 crore for the current year. He identified the commissioning of the upstream aluminium refinery and the commencement of mining operations at the Potangi bauxite mines as immediate priorities, with both projects targeted for completion by June 2026.

The CMD said these initiatives, along with sustained demand and strategic investments, are expected to strengthen NALCO’s operational capacity and support long-term growth.