Sustainability takes centre stage in Capral Aluminium and SunDrive Solar’s groundbreaking MoU

Capral Aluminium and SunDrive Solar have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a strategic supply partnership aimed at driving sustainability and strengthening Australia's solar industry supply chain. This collaboration seeks to boost the competitiveness of domestic solar module manufacturing while substantially lowering its environmental footprint.

Established in 1936, Capral Aluminium stands as Australia's largest manufacturer and distributor of aluminium products, catering to diverse sectors, including construction, automotive, marine, and the rapidly growing renewable energy industry. With an extensive network of manufacturing and distribution facilities nationwide, Capral has become the country's leading supplier of aluminium solutions and a trusted partner for industries dedicated to sustainable development.

Founded in 2015, SunDrive Solar has emerged as a trailblazer in solar cell innovation, pioneering advanced technologies to enhance solar module efficiency and sustainability. Driven by a vision to strengthen Australia's solar manufacturing capabilities, SunDrive is committed to fostering a robust local solar supply chain, supporting economic growth, and promoting industry diversification.

This agreement entails a mutual commitment to establish a domestic supply chain, thereby reducing reliance on international suppliers. By sourcing aluminium locally from Capral, SunDrive aims to enhance the stability and reliability of its production processes, reducing exposure to the risks posed by global supply chain disruptions.

Natalie Malligan, CEO of SunDrive, reflected on this vision, "Our commitment to exploring and fostering a strong, local supply chain is at the core of our vision for the future of solar manufacturing in Australia. The opportunity to source local and low-carbon aluminium through Capral has the potential to not only support Australian jobs and businesses but create a unique, Australian product that supports Australian jobs and enhance the resilience and sustainability of our production process."

This collaboration is driven by a shared dedication to sustainability. Capral's introduction of LocAL^® low-carbon aluminium in 2022 has established the company as a leader in providing sustainable extruded aluminium solutions for Australian manufacturers. Capral has recently partnered with primary aluminium suppliers to strengthen its sustainability efforts and offer materials with at least 20 per cent recycled content. The successful trial of these recycled materials in Capral's extrusion plants opens exciting possibilities for SunDrive to integrate these eco-friendly materials into its solar modules, advancing both companies' commitment to a greener future.

Capral, Australia's sole Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) certified extruder, exemplifies its dedication to responsible sourcing and sustainability throughout the aluminium supply chain. This prestigious certification guarantees that Capral's operations adhere to rigorous environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, from raw material procurement to production. For SunDrive, this certification ensures a strong, ethically grounded partnership built on Capral's commitment to sustainable and responsible practices.

An additional three-and-a-half jobs are generated across the supply chain for every manufacturing job created, demonstrating the powerful multiplier effect of a robust local manufacturing sector. Investing in a domestic solar manufacturing industry has significant potential to generate secure, well-paying jobs that strengthen local communities and stimulate economic growth. Achieving cost competitiveness is vital for long-term sustainability, and businesses understand that a well-coordinated local supply chain is key to producing high-quality, affordable products capable of competing on the global stage.

Both parties are strongly committed to advancing research and development (R&D) through joint initiatives aimed at enhancing the performance and durability of aluminium products for solar applications. This innovation-driven approach holds the potential to deliver cutting-edge solutions that boost solar module efficiency and meet the evolving demands of the renewable energy sector.

Capral's Sales and Market Manager - Industrial Solutions, Mark Murray, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, "We’re excited about the future with SunDrive. We truly believe in supporting their ambitions for domestic manufacturing and supply chains. We’re committed to exploring advanced manufacturing and automation solutions to meet the growing demands for SunDrive’s and Trina Solar’s modules, ensuring we remain competitive in the global market."

This partnership highlights the pivotal role of local supply chains and sustainable practices in advancing Australia’s renewable energy transition. By leveraging Capral’s expertise in sustainable aluminium manufacturing alongside SunDrive’s cutting-edge solar technology, the collaboration aims to set a new industry standard.

However, the success of this initiative hinges on SunDrive Solar securing funding through ARENA’s Solar Sunshot program, a crucial step in propelling this joint venture forward. Building a cost-effective and resilient local supply chain will require more than project-specific backing—it demands long-term policy alignment and investment to bolster Australia’s manufacturing capabilities and enhance global competitiveness.

Together, Capral Aluminium and SunDrive Solar are positioned to shape Australia’s renewable energy future, illustrating how strategic partnerships can drive sustainable growth, foster innovation, and strengthen local industry development in the evolving clean energy landscape.

Image credit: Capral Aluminium Press Release

Information credit: Capral Aluminium Press Release