Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest non-oil and gas industrial company in the UAE, has commenced the construction of the nation’s most extensive aluminium recycling plant.
Situated next to EGA’s existing smelter in Al Taweelah, the facility, with an annual processing capacity of 170,000 tonnes, is expected to convert post-consumer aluminium scrap into low-carbon premium aluminium billets.
Once completed within three years, the plant aims to cater to both local and global markets. EGA envisions becoming the primary consumer of aluminium scrap in the UAE, aligning with the national Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy.
Presently, a significant portion of the UAE’s aluminium scrap is exported for processing abroad, but EGA anticipates a shift with the introduction of the new recycling plant.
EGA: Key Player in Global Aluminium Production with Operations in Abu Dhabi
As one of the world’s major aluminium producers, EGA operates smelters in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, an alumina refinery in Abu Dhabi, and a bauxite mine in Guinea. On a global scale, the UAE ranks fifth in aluminium production, with EGA’s aluminium standing as a notable export for the country.
Abdulnasser bin Kalban, CEO of Emirates Global Aluminium, highlighted the pivotal role of aluminium recycling in decarbonisation and enhancing global living standards. The company’s strategic move aligns with the escalating demand for recycled aluminium globally, forecasted to reach 57 million tonnes by 2040.
In this context, recycled aluminium is projected to be a significant contributor to the growth in global aluminium supply, especially as part of the energy transition where aluminium is crucial for renewable energy technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
EGA has already taken strides towards sustainability by supplying BMW with solar power and recycled metal-produced aluminium, according to The National News.
This aluminium, named CelestiAL-R, has been utilised by BMW in manufacturing electric drivetrain housings, engine components, and large-scale structural parts since the beginning of the year.
