The future of US aluminium hinges on energy, not tariff policy — here’s why
At the Aluminum Association’s annual meeting in Washington this September, the topic that dominated was not tariffs, not trade, but energy. As the US government doubles down on its Made in America agenda, aiming to restore domestic aluminium production, executives warned that the dream of a primary aluminium revival may ultimately hinge on one factor alone: affordable electricity.
Aluminium has always been an energy story disguised as a metal story. It takes immense electricity to turn alumina into molten aluminium — roughly 11 terawatt-hours (TWh) per smelter every year, enough to power a city like Boston or Nashville.
“When you think about the energy intensity that is required for an aluminium smelter, you’re talking about basically powering a city,” Kelly Thomas, Aluminum Association vice chairperson, said at a press roundtable on September 18.
Unlock full access – sign up for FREE.
Key benefits
Mozambique’s Mozal smelter set for potential shutdown in 2026 – South32
Next articleThe administrator earned £ 2.8M from the sale of this Anglesey Aluminium site
Grow with
AL Circle
