The “Hay Capital of the World” might become the clean aluminum capital of America soon. Oklahoma and Emirates Global Aluminum have plans to construct a $4 billion aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, known for its Bluestem Prairie hay. This move could help the U.S. aluminum industry shift towards cleaner production methods.
Governor Kevin Stitt expressed excitement about the investment, stating that it would have a significant impact on Oklahoma’s future. The new plant is expected to create job opportunities for up to 1,000 people and produce 600,000 metric tons of aluminum annually. This would nearly double the country’s primary aluminum production.
Aluminum is a crucial material for various industries, including clean energy sectors. However, the U.S. aluminum industry has faced challenges in recent years, with a decline in global production share. Existing smelters are outdated, inefficient, and emit high levels of greenhouse gases.
One of the key concerns surrounding the new plant is its electricity source. Aluminum smelters require a substantial amount of energy, and the source of this electricity can impact the metal’s carbon intensity. The hope is to power the facility with renewable energy, considering Oklahoma’s significant wind energy production.
While the agreement between EGA and Oklahoma has been praised, there are lingering questions about the project’s reliance on renewable energy. Organizations like Buy Clean Aluminum are advocating for the use of wind and solar power in new aluminum production facilities to reduce environmental impact.
Emirates Global Aluminum aims to leverage Oklahoma’s renewable energy resources for the plant. The state’s high wind energy output and low reliance on coal make it an attractive location for clean energy initiatives. The company is in discussions to secure a renewable energy mix for the plant’s electricity needs.
The partnership between EGA and Oklahoma is part of a larger effort to strengthen economic ties between the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates. The Trump administration’s tariffs on aluminum imports have also influenced the decision to invest in domestic production.
Despite some uncertainties about future federal funding, EGA is committed to beginning aluminum production in Oklahoma by the end of the decade. The company’s emphasis on sustainable practices, such as using solar power in smelting operations, aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in heavy industries.
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