The International Zinc Association (IZA) predicted a major rise in India's zinc demand by 2030 in renewable energy, battery technology, automotive infrastructure and steel expansion.

Globally, zinc demand is projected to rise by 43 per cent in solar power applications while the wind energy sector will double by 2030. Energy storage solutions will see a sevenfold rise over the next five years.

India is hosting Zinc College 2024, a five day international event organised by the IZA and hosted by Hindustan Zinc which is being held in Zinc City, Udaipur. The event brings together around 100 delegated from over 20 countries and discusses zinc's role in creating a sustainable future.

One of the key discussions at the event is focused on innovations to reduce carbon emissions and promote low carbon green zinc products, with IZA members Hindustan Zinc, Boliden, Teck, and Nyrstar taking the lead. IZA's this year's focus is on developing a decarbonisation plan for zinc value chain.

The annual corrosion costs, which amount to 5 per cent of India's GDP, can be reduced by the inclusion of zinc in infrastructure projects. Due to the growing middle-class aspirations, demand of galvanised steel in automotive industry is expected to rise by 2030.

Arun Misra, Chairman of the International Zinc Association and Chief Executive Officer, Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, "We are at a critical juncture where zinc will play a decisive role in reducing carbon emissions, supporting renewable energy infrastructure, and ensuring sustainability for future generations. Zinc is essential for everything around us—from buildings to batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and automobiles. India's demand for zinc is set to grow rapidly, driven by urbanization and the need for durable infrastructure. Zinc College 2024 is a landmark event, laying the foundation for a more sustainable and innovative zinc ecosystem." 

"India's demand for zinc is ahead of the worldwide consumption patterns. Combined with the rise in emerging applications, we at International Zinc Association are optimistic about the prediction on zinc demand in India to double in under 10 years," said, Andrew Green, Executive Director, International Zinc Association

 He further added, "Zinc College in India is a milestone for the entire industry and signifies India's prominence in the zinc manufacturing sector. The collaborations and discussions here will shape zinc's role in the global economy, especially in supporting zinc's critical role in decarbonizing industries like wind, solar, automotive, and infrastructure is more relevant than ever."

Attendees at the Zinc College 2024 explored the advancements in zinc while visiting Hidustan Zinc's mining and smelting factories across Rajasthan. Additionally, the event features sessions, workshops and networking opportunities.