2024 has been all about jumping hoops to advance in the industrial progress for the non-ferrous metal, aluminium. The entire extraction and the subsequent production, starting from bauxite mining, progressing through alumina refining and finally reaching the manufacturing of a varied type of aluminium, is a mammoth task. And, producers across the globe, at times, need each other and even external supporting entities to steer forward. Today, we delve into some of the crucial agreements and contracts from the calendar year that shaped the industry smoother than before.
NTPC to supply uninterrupted power for NALCO’s smelter expansion
NTPC Limited (National Thermal Power Corporation) and National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navaratna Company, came together in a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an objective to provide approximately 1200 MW of uninterrupted, round-the-clock power to meet NALCO’s requirements for extending its capacity at the smelter plant in Angul, Odisha. This agreement was formed in February 2024 in the presence of Shri Dillip Kumar Patel, Director (HR) of NTPC, and Shri Jagdish Arora, Director (Project & Technical) of NALCO, at the SCOPE Complex in New Delhi.
Century Aluminum & MX Holdings team up
Century Aluminium Company, a leading global producer of primary aluminium, has reportedly inked a memorandum of understanding with MX Holdings to establish a joint venture focused on manufacturing and marketing low-carbon secondary billet. The partnership aims to deliver premium, technically advanced aluminium alloys featuring increased recycled content, crafted using low-carbon production processes. As part of the agreement, the two companies will leverage their existing, wholly-owned Pennex facilities to produce billet. Both Century Aluminium and MX Holdings will develop a range of specialised alloys tailored to meet diverse customer requirements.
Guinea-Bissau’s framework agreement with Chinalco
On Monday, 4th November, Chinalco and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau signed a framework agreement for cooperation on mineral resources at the Ministry of Natural Resources in Guinea-Bissau. Located on West Africa’s Atlantic coast and renowned for its national parks and wildlife, Guinea-Bissau is seeking to unlock its mineral potential. The Ministry expressed optimism that Chinalco’s world-class technical expertise and dedication to environmental stewardship would drive efficient and sustainable mineral development, fostering economic growth for the nation.
Sunstone X Geely Baikuang Prebaked Anode Project
On 20th August 2024, Sunstone Development announced a capital increase agreement with Geely Baikuang, jointly investing ¥290 million ($40.6 million) into Tiandong Baikuang Santian Carbon Co., Ltd. Post-investment, Sunstone Development will hold a 66 per cent stake, with Geely Baikuang owning the remaining 34 per cent. The funds will drive the construction of a state-of-the-art 600,000 tonne prebaked anode production facility, advancing the companies’ shared commitment to cutting-edge aluminium production technology.
South32 Hillside Aluminium Secures 15-Year Lease
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a 15-year lease agreement with South32 Hillside Aluminium, ensuring continued operations at the Port of Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal. As the largest aluminium smelter in the southern hemisphere, Hillside plays a critical role in supporting local downstream manufacturing and exports. Additionally, the smelter’s operations contribute to stabilising South Africa’s Eskom electricity grid, reinforcing its importance in domestic and international markets.
Bizongo and NALCO Join Forces
In a significant move for India’s B2B eCommerce market, Bizongo has signed an MoU with National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navratna CPSE and a leading producer of bauxite, alumina, and aluminium. Through Bizongo’s advanced platform, BizongoBuy, and embedded finance solution, BizongoFin, NALCO’s non-ferrous products—including ingots, billets, sows, and wire rods—will reach broader markets, supporting India’s industrial growth and rising demand for aluminium amidst high GDP projections.
GACL and Vedanta Aluminium Partnership
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd (GACL) has inked an MoU with Vedanta Aluminium to explore business opportunities in caustic chlorine and related sectors. This strategic partnership aims to capitalise on complementary expertise, fostering synergies that enhance operational efficiency and business value for both companies.
Monadelphous Secures A$160 Million in New Contracts
Monadelphous Group has announced new contracts and extensions worth approximately A$160 million (US$107 million). Highlights include:
- One-year extensions for fixed plant maintenance and sustaining capital projects at Rio Tinto’s Pilbara iron ore operations.
- A fabrication, supply, installation, and commissioning contract at Rio Tinto’s Tom Price mine, slated for completion by mid-2025.
- A three-year minor project works contract at South32’s Worsley Alumina operations in Western Australia, continuing their 20-year partnership.
- A fabrication contract for structural steelwork and pipe racks at Iluka’s Eneabba Rare Earths Refinery Project, scheduled for mid-2025 completion.
Monadelphous continues to strengthen its foothold in the engineering and resources sector, delivering critical services across key projects in Australia.
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