Masdar, EGA Join Forces for Low-Carbon Aluminium Solutions 

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) have embarked on a strategic partnership aimed at advancing aluminium decarbonisation efforts and exploring avenues for low-carbon growth. The collaboration, solidified with the presence of Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, signifies a pivotal step towards sustainable industrial practices in the UAE and beyond. 

Under the alliance, Masdar and EGA will collaborate on the development of renewable energy projects, integrating technologies such as battery storage and green hydrogen production. These initiatives are designed to facilitate the decarbonisation of EGA’s existing operations within the UAE, as well as any prospective ventures within the country. Additionally, the partnership extends globally, where Masdar will support EGA in integrating renewable energy sources into new aluminium production facilities. 

The significance of this partnership lies in its potential to revolutionize the aluminium industry, a sector known for its energy-intensive production processes. Approximately 60% of the global aluminium industry’s greenhouse gas emissions stem from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation. By leveraging Masdar’s expertise in renewable energy and EGA’s position as a leading aluminium producer, the alliance seeks to address this challenge head-on. 

Mohamed Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, said, “Masdar is proud to be collaborating with EGA to help decarbonise the aluminium production process. Strong partnerships such as this are exactly what the world needs to accelerate our path to Net Zero. 

He added, “When organisations combine their knowledge and resources to help decarbonise vital industries, we not only protect the environment, but we also boost the economy. This is core to our mission at Masdar. We look forward to developing further compelling propositions for international markets to maximise the economic benefits of using renewable energy.” 

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of EGA, said, “Aluminium plays an essential role in decarbonisation economy-wide, which is why demand for this metal has the potential to grow by as much as 80 percent by 2050. Fulfilling this potential depends on how sustainably aluminium is made. 

“EGA’s alliance with Masdar, another UAE industrial champion and a global leader in clean energy, should unlock opportunities to decarbonise our existing operations including further expanding our production of CelestiAL solar aluminium, and secure low-carbon growth. We are already exploring opportunities together, and I look forward to working with Masdar both in the UAE and around the world.” 

EGA, a significant contributor to the global aluminium market, has been at the forefront of sustainable innovation. In 2021, it achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first company to commercially produce aluminium using solar power. This achievement was followed by further progress in 2023, with the production of CelestiAL solar aluminium. EGA’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns seamlessly with Masdar’s mission to drive renewable energy adoption worldwide. 

Established in 2006, Masdar has established itself as a global leader in clean energy development. With investments in renewable energy projects spanning over 40 countries and a growing portfolio of more than 20 GW of capacity, Masdar is dedicated to achieving ambitious renewable energy targets. These targets include reaching 100 GW of total renewable energy capacity by 2030 and producing up to 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by the same year. 

Katherine Hahm (pictured left) serves as General Counsel and Head of Ethics & Business Integrity of Emirates Global Aluminium and leads EGA’s legal and compliance departments. Chloe Truong (pictured right) is currently serving as Acting General Counsel, Legal at Masdar.