Shree Cement expands its plant in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh

By OEM Update Editorial April 3, 2024 4:15 pm IST

The factory, built with a ₹ 2,500 crore investment, will boost Shree Cement’s manufacturing capacity to 56.4 MTPA and create around 700 direct and 1300 indirect jobs.

Shree Cement, one of India’s leading cement makers, unveiled its new integrated plant at Dachepalli village, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, six months ahead of schedule. The new cement plant has a manufacturing capacity of 3 MTPA. The plant will increase Shree Cement’s manufacturing capacity to 56.4 MTPA, consolidating its position as a major player in the cement market.

Shree Cement’s Guntur factory, built with a ₹ 2,500 crore investment, will be the company’s sixth integrated production facility in the country and second in the Southern area after Kodla, Karnataka. The factory, which is strategically located to serve the burgeoning markets of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, would help to drive regional economic development. The new plant is estimated to create around 700 direct and 1300 indirect jobs.

Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement Ltd, said, “We’re committed to growing responsibly. The Guntur plant reflects this by using advanced technology for manufacturing and controlling emissions, making high quality cement with efficient use of energy. The plant will also drive economic growth and well-being in the area through employment opportunities and partnership with local communities. Our focus remains on serving people, suppliers, customers and communities, aiming for inclusive value creation.” 

The newly constructed factory lays a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. This cutting-edge facility is designed to use 30 percent alternative fuel and raw materials (AFR), such as municipal garbage and biomass. It would set the trend for the Indian industry by having the greatest AFR utilization in the sector.

One of the plant’s most notable features is the unusual installation of the Limestone Crusher 40 feet below ground level within the mining pit. This design option effectively minimizes fuel usage, demonstrating the plant’s commitment to environmentally responsible operations.

Approximately 75 percent of the total power requirement is met through in-house waste heat recovery plant of 12 MW and solar power plant of 21.5 MW. This substantial reliance on renewable energy sources demonstrates the plant’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Furthermore, the plant produces no waste and is fully water positive. It returns more water, primarily rainwater, to the mining pit than it consumes inside the facility. Furthermore, the use of air-cooled screw compressors and air dryers rather than water-cooled models minimizes process water use, demonstrating the plant’s dedication to responsible resource management.

Neeraj said, “Driven by our core philosophy of ‘Build Smart’, Shree Cement is firmly on track to become a modern and green building material company. In order to maintain our industry leading performance benchmarks, we are ramping up our capacity utilisation, enhancing our brand equity, raising cost efficiency and further stepping up our R&D efforts. This strategic approach ensures we continue to set new standards of excellence in the industry.” 

Shree Cement has cement manufacturing facilities across India and UAE. The commissioning of the Guntur unit marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards achieving its production target of 80 MTPA capacity by 2028, by when 13 more plants will be operational, five of which are scheduled to be commissioned in FY25.

Shree Cement Limited is known for its industry leading green credentials, cutting edge innovative practices, best operational efficiency and cost leadership. With sustainability as the cornerstone of its growth strategy, the company is striving to deliver the most environmentally friendly building solutions to its customers.

Bangur Magna leads the brand portfolio, offering total protection with its Zeta Potential Shield. Shree Cement caters to a wide range of smart construction demands, including Bangur Jungrodhak, which resists rust; Bangur Powermax, which uses Powergrind technology for greater power; and Bangur Rockstrong, which provides instant rock-like strength.