Power cost of EUR 600 vs EUR 1,800 per tonne: How electricity prices are reshaping Europe’s aluminium industry (Part 1)
How much does it really cost to produce aluminium in Europe, and can the region’s smelters compete with producers in the US and China? Beyond electricity prices, the economics of primary and recycled aluminium, industrial electrification and changing automotive demand are shaping the future of Europe’s aluminium industry. In this exclusive interview with AL Circle, Dr Martin Iffert, Founder and CEO of Martin Iffert Consulting, examines these challenges, discussing smelter economics, recycling competitiveness and the outlook for Europe’s 2040 electrification vision. He also shares his views on Germany’s production landscape and the investments needed to improve productivity and strengthen the aluminium value chain. Dr Iffert brings over 30 years of industry experience. He served as CEO of...
Inside Novelis’ 2030 strategy: Aligning scrap supply, recycling investment and new opportunities in aluminium markets
The AL Circle team caught up with Michael Hahne, Vice President Commercial, Novelis Europe, for a conversation at ALUMINIUM 2026 in Düsseldorf, Germany. With experience across the company’s automotive and beverage can businesses, Hahne brings a commercial perspective to the evolving relationship between aluminium, customer needs and circularity. In this exclusive interview, Hahne explains why aluminium’s next growth chapter will depend on more than expanding production. Securing scrap, closing material loops and turning metallurgical expertise into new customer solutions are becoming central to the industry’s competitiveness. As automotive lightweighting, battery applications and circularity reshape demand, he discusses the strategies behind Novelis’ global footprint and the challenges of...
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AL Circle x Alfiniti: Aluminium tubing innovation through precision, sustainability, automation & strong customer collaboration in evolving industrial markets
Steve James (also published as Richard S. James) is Managing Director of Alfiniti, Inc., steering the company’s aluminium-tubing operations to strong operational and financial results. A veteran of aluminium extrusions, heat-treated sheet and plate, and casthouse processes, he has driven growth and turnarounds across automotive, HVAC, aerospace, and distribution markets worldwide. Known for clear manufacturing plans and accountable teams, Steve focuses on delivering sustained value for customers and stakeholders alike. AL Circle: Alfiniti has carved out a unique niche in aluminium extruded tubing. How do your proprietary expertise and vertical integration give you a technological or competitive edge in today’s evolving industrial landscape? Steve James: We spend a lot of time upfront with...
AL Circle x Marlene Johler: Europe’s aluminium scrap faces a critical test
In conversation with Marlene Johler, the Head of Sustainability & Public Affairs at Hammerer Aluminium Industries GmbH and also a lecturer of circular economy at the Technical University Vienna. She speaks about Europe’s aluminium recycling ecosystem. She highlighted that once a global benchmark for circularity and efficiency, the system is now under strain. Johler insists scrap is not just waste; it’s strategic gold. Without it, Europe cannot hope to meet the EU Green Deal’s climate targets or maintain industrial sovereignty. Other nations like India, Malaysia, China are already restrict exports to protect their industries, while Europe’s safeguards remain toothless. To know more about the industry and what Marlene Johler has to say, read the full interview. AL Circle: How would you...
AL Circle x Daniel Lim: Merging profitability with sustainability in aluminium competitiveness
Daniel Lim, the Sales & Marketing Director at ALCOM, drives the company’s global growth in HVACR, building and industrial segments. With 20+ years of aluminium industry expertise, he leads commercial strategy and client engagement with top brands like Daikin, Carrier and York. His focus on sustainability has positioned ALCOM as the world’s first aluminium producer with Product Carbon Footprint certification across all product ranges. In an interview for American Aluminium Industry: Focus 2025 e-magazine Daniel Lim talks about how ALCOM supports US downstream markets through innovation in alloys, coatings and fin-stock technologies, while driving decarbonisation via circularity, renewable energy and carbon mapping. He also addresses the US industry challenges like tariff volatility,...
AL Circle x Klaus Schmitz: Why US aluminium furnaces lag today and strategies to modernise
In an interview for " American Aluminium Industry: The Path Forward ", Klaus Schmitz, Vice President, Sales and Marketing Thermoprocessing Plants, Otto Junker, discussed the modernisation of US aluminium furnaces and recycling systems with direct context to decarbonisation, electrification and operational efficiency. The discussion further also show how legacy batch melting systems remain dominant due to high replacement costs, space constraints and production risks, yet growing decarbonisation targets and regulatory pressures are pushing operators to explore induction melting, advanced recycling and power-to-heat technologies. Safety, automation and cybersecurity are critical considerations, while KPIs such as energy source, metal yield and process stability are emerging as benchmarks...
AL Circle x Eishin Takahashi: Magnetic engineering innovations shaping aluminium recycling efficiency and sustainability
Eishin Takahashi, President of Zmag America, leads Zmag’s international activities and steers the strategic direction of its magnetic engineering technology. With a strong background in software and business development, including leadership roles at Preview Systems and Aladdin Knowledge Systems, Eishin brings global expertise in technology transfer and innovation. He holds an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, along with degrees in Economics and Mechanical Engineering. In an interview for “ American Aluminium Industry: The Path Forward ” e-Magazine, Eishin Takahashi stated that the future of aluminium recycling hinges on advanced magnetic engineering solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support a sustainable supply chain. AL...
AL Circle x Jean Simard: Canadian green aluminium positioned as a global driver of sustainability
Jean Simard, President and CEO of Aluminium Association of Canada and the official representative of Canada’s aluminium industry, serves as a leading voice with governments, business associations, NGOs, media and international organisations connected to the sector. Recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for advancing Canada’s green aluminium and his commitment to the arts, Simard brings deep expertise in geopolitical trade analysis, public policy, sustainability, environment, and energy. In an interview for “ American Aluminium Industry: The Path Forward ” e-Magazine, Jean Simard stated that the central discussion focused on how Canadian aluminium are produced with one of the lowest carbon footprints globally thanks to clean energy and innovation and can lead the industry’s...
AL Circle x Allison Ju: China’s aluminium market: prices, demand, imports and policy strategies
Allison Ju brings extensive expertise across the entire aluminum industry value chain, delivering comprehensive analysis on supply, demand, costs, and regulatory developments, while maintaining close engagement with leading aluminum producers globally. In an interview for ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond , Allison Ju discussed China’s 2025 aluminium price trends, the impact of trade policies and tariffs on downstream segments, strategies for inventory management and key drivers of domestic demand including NEVs, high-voltage transmission and consumer appliances. She also highlighted the rising role of imports and recycled aluminium in balancing domestic supply constraints. AL Circle: With aluminium demand in China showing consistent growth, do you expect this upward trend to persist despite...
AL Circle x Romain Girbal: Sustainable bauxite mining strategies shaping aluminium industry's future growth
Romain Girbal is a seasoned entrepreneur and business developer with over two decades of experience across diverse industries. A graduate of HEC Paris specialising in Business Law and Management, he is recognised for his strategic vision and leadership. In 2013, he co-founded Alliance Minière Responsable (AMR), a French bauxite mining company in the Republic of Guinea, where he championed responsible and sustainable mining practices. Currently, as a board member of IB2, he continues to drive innovation and growth, leveraging his business development expertise. In an interview for Aluminium China: 2025 & Beyond e-Magazine, Romain Girbal shared how IB2’s French technology helping China to utilise low-grade bauxite, cut import reliance and boost sustainability by reducing caustic soda use by...
AL Circle x Altmin: Scaling India’s LFP battery ecosystem through innovation and automation
Anjani Sri Mourya Sunkavalli, Founder and MD of Altmin, is a visionary entrepreneur with expertise in market research, business development and political observation. With a background in Mass Communication, Political Science and Government Affairs from St. Mary’s College, Hyderabad, he has been proactive in addressing societal and industrial needs, from introducing affordable sanitiser solutions in public transport to pioneering lithium supply chain development for India. Since 2019, Mourya has focused on securing lithium resources from South America, working closely with government bodies like TSMDC, KABIL and NITI Aayog to strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical minerals and battery technologies. The interview highlights Altmin’s role in scaling India’s LFP battery ecosystem...
AL Circle x Janwear: Advanced aluminium automation driving innovation across inspection, processing & packaging
Since its establishment in 2017, Janwear has steadily evolved into a key player in industrial automation, expanding its expertise across 3C, automotive, new energy vehicles (NEV) and aluminium processing sectors. With a strong focus on technological innovation, the company has developed proprietary automated systems and secured multiple patents, particularly in aluminium inspection, machining and packaging solutions. By 2025, Janwear had attracted strategic investments, scaled its operations and strengthened its talent pool to support its growing portfolio of automation solutions for the aluminium industry. In an interview for “ ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond ” e-Magazine, Janwear discussed its rapid growth, innovation in aluminium automation, and future ambitions. AL Circle: What key role...
AL Circle x Hydeb: Custom aluminium solutions engineered to solve site-specific operational challenges efficiently
Jinan Hydeb Thermal Tech Co., Ltd. has spent over two decades revolutionising aluminium equipment manufacturing with a strong focus on solving onsite challenges faced by casthouses, foundries and recycling plants. Backed by a technically experienced founder with over 30 years in the aluminium industry, Hydeb prioritises customised, high-performance solutions over one-size-fits-all equipment. Their R&D-driven approach ensures machines are tailored to specific layouts and operations, resulting in enhanced efficiency, reduced maintenance and improved output quality. In an interview for “ ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond ” e-Magazine, Hydeb discussed this customer-centric innovation journey and the technologies driving the next phase of aluminium manufacturing. AL Circle: Is your entire range of...
AL Circle x Chu da Machinery: CNC evolution, automation upgrades, export strategies and service innovation
Founded in 2017 in Foshan, Chu da Machinery has evolved from traditional aluminium processing equipment to advanced CNC systems tailored for rail transit and automotive sectors. With a strong R&D focus, the company now offers smart, high-precision CNC machines and comprehensive service solutions across China and beyond. In an interview for ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond , Chuda discussed its CNC transformation journey and future growth plans. AL Circle: What are the standout features of your machinery and how do they help aluminium producers enhance operational efficiency and productivity? Chuda: The key advantage of Chuda’s CNC equipment lies in its minimal tail stock precision cutting technology. By utilising a three-axis structure, our system intelligently bypasses the end plate,...
AL Circle x Nanping Aluminium: Driving sustainable growth through innovation in aluminium manufacturing and applications
Nanping Aluminium Co., Ltd., a state-owned enterprise under Fujian Industrial Holding Group, is a leading manufacturer with over 60 years of expertise in green, low-carbon aluminium solutions. With a fully integrated industrial chain and an annual capacity of 450,000 metric tons, it serves key sectors like consumer electronics, automotive and architectural engineering. Recognised among China’s Top 10 Architectural Aluminium Profile Manufacturers, the company champions innovation and sustainability. In an interview for ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond e-Magazine, Nanping Aluminium shared insights into its advanced manufacturing and industry vision. AL Circle: How is your company integrating intelligent manufacturing, automation, or Industry 4.0 into operations? Nanping Aluminium: Nanping...
AL Circle x Luoyang Longding Aluminum Industries Co., Ltd.: Driving aluminium innovation through R&D, patents and process optimisation
Zhang Anle, a Metallic Materials Engineering graduate from Wuhan University of Science and Technology, has been instrumental in advancing aluminium processing since 2007. Currently, at Luoyang Longding Aluminum Co., Ltd., he has led innovations in product R&D, quality management and industrial upgrades, earning multiple national patents and industry accolades. In an interview for the “ ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond ” e-Magazine, Zhang stated how high-value-added product development and process optimisation significantly enhanced output and market competitiveness. AL Circle: Could you walk us through your journey to achieving an annual production capacity of 400,000 tonnes with a total investment of $3.4 billion? What key challenges did you face, and what lessons have you learned along the...
AL Circle x Wanji Group: Driving sustainable growth through innovation in China's aluminium value chain
Wanji Holding Group Co., Ltd., founded in 1987, is a leading integrated enterprise with operations spanning coal mining, power generation, alumina, electrolytic aluminium and aluminium deep processing. With 14 subsidiaries and stakes in 7 joint ventures, Wanji has built a complete “coal–power–aluminium” value chain. Ranked among China’s Top 500 Enterprises for 16 consecutive years, it also holds the “AAA Credit Enterprise” rating. In an interview for ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond , Wanji shares its vision for high-quality growth, innovation-driven development, and a more sustainable aluminium industry. AL Circle: What is your current footprint in domestic and international markets? Wanji Group: Domestic Market Leadership: Leading market share in: Premium aluminium foil stock; CTP plate...
AL Circle x Lizhong Sitong Light Alloys Group Co., Ltd: Driving aluminium sustainability through innovation and global collaboration.
Founded in 1984, Lizhong Group is a global enterprise specialising in recycled aluminium alloys and lightweight automotive products. The company operates through three major enterprise groups, recycled aluminium alloy, aluminium alloy wheel and functional master alloy new materials. In an interview for ALuminium China 2025 & Beyond e-Magazine , Lizhong Group shared its vision for the future of sustainable aluminium. The discussion highlighted the company’s strategic focus on advancing low-carbon and high-performance aluminium materials, supporting China’s dual carbon goals and promoting intelligent manufacturing. They also emphasised the importance of industry collaboration, green supply chains, and the expansion of overseas markets to enhance global competitiveness. AL Circle: What...
Volker Hoffmann from CeraNovis and AL Circle converse on the aluminium market’s shift from cost and quality to sustainability
Volker Hofmann is the Head of Sales and Product Management at CeraNovis GmbH, a Saarbrücken-based specialist in high-performance coatings for foundries and casthouses. A qualified engineer in Foundry and Materials Technology (Dipl.-Ing. FH), Hofmann brings over three decades of experience across Europe’s metallurgical and casting sectors. His career spans leadership roles in the vonRoll Foundry Group, P&S Foundry, and the European Foundry Group, with a particular focus on Tier 1 automotive supply. Before co-founding CeraNovis in 2012 as a spin-off from ItN Nanovation AG, he led the development of nanotechnology-based coating solutions for metal processing industries. Fluent in German, English, and French, Hofmann is recognised for his deep technical expertise and strategic insight into...
AL Circle x ANYbotics: AI robotics transforming aluminium inspections and maintenance automation
Belin Güngör, Head of Metals & Minerals for North America at ANYbotics, leads AI-driven robotic inspection solutions for heavy industries. ANYmal robots are transforming routine inspections and predictive maintenance in metals and mining through autonomy, agility, and real-time data insights, boosting safety and efficiency while addressing labour gaps. In an interview for Advanced Industrial Technologies in the Aluminium Industry (Part II) e-Magazine, Belin Güngör emphasised the growing demand for robotics in hazardous aluminium environments and how ANYmal enables proactive maintenance and operational continuity. AL Circle: Can you outline ANYmal robots, four-legged autonomy, and the sensor suite (visual, thermal, gas, and acoustic) and address the operational challenges in aluminium...
