Aluminium’s decarbonisation challenge extends beyond the electricity powering its smelters. Inside the reduction cell, electrode quality influences how efficiently that electricity is used, how much carbon is consumed and how consistently the process performs. Improving electrodes therefore offers producers a practical opportunity to address operating costs and emissions together. For Switzerland-based R&D Carbon , understanding the relationship between raw materials, electrode quality and industrial performance has been a focus for four decades. Founded in 1986 by Werner K. Fischer, the company built on carbon research previously undertaken at Swiss Aluminium Ltd., or Alusuisse. Today, it operates from Granges, near Sierre, with a team of 30 specialists serving more than 150 customers...
Mexico’s aluminum industry is looking to capitalize on rising demand from artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, electric mobility, automotive manufacturing, and aerospace. Expanding technology investments and international market opportunities are expected to support sales growth, while the country’s reliance on imported aluminum highlights the importance of strengthening domestic processing capabilities. Ramón Beltrán, president of Mexico’s National Chamber of the Aluminum Industry (Canalum), expects the country’s domestic and international aluminum sales to gain momentum in 2026, supported by demand from advanced technology applications and established manufacturing sectors. “We expect to close out this year with growth of between 7.5% and 7.8% in domestic and international...
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PT PLN (Persero) and its subsidiary, PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI), have inked a memorandum of understanding with JERA Co. Inc., aiming to reshape Indonesia's energy sector. This strategic collaboration delves into green energy initiatives, LNG infrastructure, and supply chain optimisation. Indonesia is poised for a transformative shift in its energy landscape, focusing on green energy alternatives. The collaboration between PLN EPI and JERA Co. Inc. holds immense significance in steering Indonesia towards a sustainable future. The emphasis on green or blue ammonia and hydrogen projects underscores a commitment to replacing conventional fossil fuels. LNG development and energy transition Iwan Agung Firstantara, Main Director of PLN EPI, underscores the pivotal role of gas,...
RenewSys India Pvt Ltd, a global leader in solar manufacturing, has inked a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Industries Department of Telangana, affirming an estimated investment of INR 6,000 crore. This move not only reinforces RenewSys' commitment to sustainable energy solutions but also positions Telangana as a potential hub for solar panel equipment. RenewSys, headquartered in Singapore, has already established manufacturing plants in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Patalganga. However, the decision to set up its largest integrated facility in Telangana reflects the state's allure as a conducive investment destination. The phased investment plan spans diverse aspects of solar manufacturing, encompassing PV modules and cells, underlining a comprehensive commitment...
Novelis Inc., the world's leading sustainable aluminium provider and a global leader in aluminium rolling and recycling , has announced that it has signed a green Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Statkraft, the largest producer of renewable energy in Europe. This PPA will encompass a significant portion, up to 40 per cent, of the electricity consumption at two key Novelis manufacturing facilities in Germany: Nachterstedt Recycling and Nachterstedt Rolling . This agreement represents approximately 16 per cent of the company's overall electricity usage in Germany. Emilio Braghi, the Executive Vice President of Novelis Inc. and President of Novelis Europe, said, "Enabling our plants to power a significant part of their production with renewable electricity while decreasing carbon...
In the heart of India, where the land echoes the tales of progress, Vedanta Lanjigarh emerges as a beacon of innovation in the aluminium industry. This premier producer of metallurgical grade alumina, a gem in Vedanta Aluminium's crown, is not just shaping the future of metal production but is also etching a remarkable legacy in sustainability. Vedanta Lanjigarh has embarked on an extraordinary journey to revolutionise its operations, envisioning a greener tomorrow. The company's recent foray into biodiesel applications is a testament to its commitment to decarbonise by 2050. Through successful trial runs, Vedanta has harnessed the power of biodiesel, a 'green' fuel derived from biomass, to propel its fleet of commercial vehicles. Biodiesel unveiled: A green elixir for a sustainable...
Hindalco Industries, a primary player in the aluminium industry, is intensifying its commitment to sustainability. Satish Pai, the Managing Director, envisions achieving the first phase of the interim greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target well before 2030. By 2030, through the completion of the initial phase of the pumped hydro project, Hindalco aims to secure more than 30% of its energy requirements from renewable sources. The company's aspirations extend beyond, aspiring to attain carbon neutrality by 2050. The game-changing Pumped Hydro Project Pai highlights the significance of the pumped hydro project, anticipating a substantial impact on reducing carbon emissions. The successful implementation could propel Hindalco towards achieving its energy mix targets ahead of schedule. "Once...
February 19, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Chemship as it launches its inaugural vessel equipped with wind-assisted propulsion, setting a new standard in sustainable shipping. The MT Chemical Challenger, a pioneering chemical tanker, now boasts the distinction of being the first of its kind globally to integrate eco-friendly wind technology into its operations. Assigned to ply the Trans-Atlantic route connecting the United States East Coast with the Mediterranean, this vessel heralds a new era of environmentally conscious maritime transportation. The recent installation of four 16-meter-high aluminium wind sails on the 134-meter-long ship represents a groundbreaking advancement. Manufactured by Econowind, these VentoFoils provide a direct wind surface of 180 m2. Through...
Assan Aluminyum, a trailblazer in the flat-rolled aluminium sector, has secured its position as a sustainability frontrunner by participating in the esteemed CDP 2023 Climate Change program. Notably, the company earned an impressive 'B' rating, surpassing both global industry averages and the worldwide metal industry benchmark. In the latest evaluation by CDP , a London-based international non-profit organisation, Assan Aluminyum, a subsidiary of the Kibar Group and a key player in the European aluminium foil manufacturing arena, demonstrated exceptional environmental performance. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone, making Assan Aluminyum the first company in Turkey to report on climate change and environmental performance through CDP. The General Manager of Assan Aluminyum...
The Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) has recertified Novelis with the ASI Performance Standard V3 for all aluminium production activities at its Nachterstedt sites. This recertification encompasses Novelis Sheet Ingot GmbH, the recycling site, which involves shredding, de-coating, melting, and casting processes. The certification extends to the Novelis Deutschland GmbH Nachterstedt Werk facility, where processes include cold rolling, heat treatment, coating, and finishing. These recertification, conducted after June 1, 2023, adhere to the 2022 Standards, demonstrating Novelis' commitment to upholding industry-leading sustainability practices. On December 2023, Novelis announced its achievement of securing Performance Standard Certifications by the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative...
Alucoat, based in Linares, Spain, has recently attained certification under the ASI Performance Standard V3 (2022) for producing aluminium lacquer-coated coils and honeycomb core sheets. This certification, announced by the Aluminum Stewardship Initiative (ASI), underscores Alucoat's commitment to sustainability in manufacturing materials across various sectors, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and construction. "Alucoat is very pleased to obtain the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Certification for Performance Standard (V3 2022) as a commitment to improve sustainability throughout the aluminium value chain, working with our stakeholders and with SDG 17 partnerships for the goals. Alucoat is in the process of implementing improvements in ASI's sustainability priorities...
In a strategic move towards fostering eco-friendly manufacturing, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) has collaborated with Japanese giants IHI Corporation and IHI Asia Pacific (Thailand) Co. The focus lies on the Smart Park Industrial Estate in Rayong, emphasising the imperative need for green infrastructure and renewable energy in the pursuit of a sustainable industrial landscape. The IEAT, in alignment with global trends, is undertaking a one-year feasibility study, marking the initial phase of a groundbreaking project. As the European Union implements the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), encompassing aluminium among other sectors, the aluminium industry is at the precipice of transformative change. This mechanism aims to curtail carbon-intensive manufacturing,...
In the heart of Brazil's Bahia state, a unique carnival spectacle has emerged, transcending mere revelry. The Aluminium Can Street Party, locally known as 'Bloco da Latinha,' showcases a dazzling array of costumes crafted from recycled beer and soda cans. Beyond the vibrant celebration, this initiative reflects a profound commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. The inception of this eco-conscious street party traces back to 1997 when a group of friends and family, concerned about the post-Carnival litter, began gathering discarded cans. As recycling became a regulated profession, the party paused but resurged in 2011 with performers adorned in elaborate 'pierros.' Over the years, it evolved from a clumsy start to a nationally recognised event, gaining prominence through a 2015...
Rusal, the world's largest aluminium company by primary aluminium output, announced that it produced cast alloy with a higher share of recycled aluminium content, which increased to 25-30 per cent. The alloy is tailored primarily for the automotive industry. This new alloy is equivalent to Rusal's primary equivalent foundry alloys (PEFA), consisting of more than a quarter of recycled aluminium. From the initial 20 per cent, the recycled metal content in this alloy has been increased to 25 to 30 per cent. This new cast alloy fully aligns with OEM requirements, meeting the need for recycled content and a low-carbon footprint. Moreover, the scrap sourcing approach for PEFA is more methodical than the approach followed in the case of primary foundry alloys, helping Rusal with its commitment...
Decarbonising and sustainable aluminium production is poised to become the foremost focus on the supply side in the coming years. The global aluminium industry is set to prioritise achieving net-zero and carbon-neutral, making it a central driving force in the sector. In its latest strategic move to enhance its renewable energy holdings, Hindalco Industries has finalized the acquisition of a 26 per cent stake in Ayana Renewable Power Four for INR 1.62 crore. Mozambique stands on the cusp of a momentous energy transition, poised to reclaim authority over its hydropower reserves from South Africa. Alcoa Corporation's decision to offload its shuttered Intalco Works aluminium smelter to AltaGas Ltd., a Canadian energy firm, has ignited curiosity and conjecture regarding the destiny of the...
On Wednesday, February 7, the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) announced the joining of Plus Pack as the new Downstream Supporter member. Plus Pack, one of the leading aluminium and plastic packaging solution providers, is committed to revolutionizing the single-use food packaging sector, steering it towards circularity and minimizing its climate footprint. The partnership with ASI underscores Plus Pack's unwavering commitment to promoting responsible production and consumption practices. ASI is a crucial resource, furnishing us with invaluable insights to navigate sustainability hurdles and capitalize on opportunities within the aluminium value chain. "We have decided to join ASI to further support the transformation of the aluminium industry towards a more responsible production...
In a significant stride towards advancing the future of clean energy in the Middle East and North African region (MENA), Array Technologies (Array), a global leader in utility-scale solar tracking solutions, has inked a strategic partnership with Aluminum Products Company (ALUPCO®), a distinguished aluminium extrusion company. The collaboration between Array and ALUPCO® represents a convergence of expertise, reliability, and innovation. This partnership is positioned strategically to play a crucial part in transforming the energy landscape in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA area. The shared commitment to excellence, focusing on performance and sustainability, positions both organisations as pioneers and innovators in the renewables industry. Leadership voices: Array CEO and ALUPCO® CEO...
Hindalco, the world's largest aluminium rolling and recycling company, is partnering with Xynteo to host 'The Exchange,' a two-day event in New Delhi. This collaboration is geared towards bringing together key stakeholders from various sectors to strategise solutions for India's goals of equitable and sustainable development by 2030. The event, titled 'India@2030 - Scaling Good Growth,' will feature prominent speakers like Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa for India, and Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. Dignitaries from diverse fields, including space exploration, technology, and business, will share insights on actionable approaches to overcome common challenges hindering sustainable development in India. The 'The Exchange' event will be hosted at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, on...
Chinese Premier Li Qiang has issued a decree from the State Council marking the introduction of regulations for trading carbon emissions. This announcement comes from an official statement by China's cabinet on February 4, 2024. Set to take effect on May 1, 2024, these regulations aim to lay down a legal structure for the national carbon emissions trading market, promoting its robust and enduring development. Adopting carbon emissions trading is a crucial policy instrument to mitigate the release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, utilising market mechanisms. This initiative reflects China's dedication to reaching a peak in carbon emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2060. The newly implemented regulations comprise 33 articles aimed at establishing a robust...
Alcoa Corporation's announcement to sell its closed Intalco Works aluminium smelter to Canadian energy company AltaGas Ltd. has sparked interest and speculation about the future of the sprawling complex near Ferndale. The smelter, once a primary aluminium producer, faced closure, and Blue Wolf Capital's attempt to produce "green" aluminium with hydropower fell through in 2022. Calgary-based AltaGas Ltd. is considering a totalitarian redevelopment of the site to produce "green" hydrogen, a fuel that the government is eager to subsidise for clean production processes. The company envisions a 100-metric-ton-per-day hydrogen production plant, marking a significant step in the green hydrogen landscape. Despite being in the early stages, AltaGas cites access to renewable power, industrial...
