Highlighting the importance of decarbonising the sector, demand for aluminium is expected to rise by 40% by 2030. Decarbonisation of alumina refining is dependent on renewable energy supply, while aluminium smelting requires both green power and the successful commercialisation of inert (non-carbon) anodes.
Inert anodes would eradicate the need for Carbon Capture and Storage to decarbonise aluminium and cut demand for traditional carbon anodes.
Progress in aluminium decarbonisation will increase its attractiveness as an energy transition metal.
Countries able to develop abundant renewable energy at low cost should ultimately attract aluminium producers.
Transitioning to wind- and solar-powered aluminium production processes is likely to be capital intensive and raise costs.
