**Nalco Aims for Green Alumina Production by 2030**
**Meta Description:** National Aluminium Co. Ltd plans to produce green alumina by 2030, investing in renewable energy to support India’s energy transition.
**URL Slug:** nalco-green-alumina-2030
**Headline:** National Aluminium Co. Ltd Sets Sights on Green Alumina Production by 2030
The National Aluminium Co. Ltd (Nalco), a state-run enterprise, has announced its intention to commence the production of green alumina by 2030. This initiative aligns with India’s broader energy transition goals and the increasing global emphasis on carbon reduction. However, the company has not established specific production targets and does not anticipate a complete shift to renewable energy for its operations by that time.
To support its green alumina project, Nalco is planning to invest up to ₹1,575 crore in renewable energy initiatives. This investment will include the development of a new 15 megawatt (MW) wind power plant, along with an additional 200–300 MW of renewable energy capacity. Brijendra Pratap Singh, the Chairman and Managing Director of Nalco, indicated that the estimated capital expenditure is around ₹5 crore per MW. Furthermore, Nalco intends to enter into power purchase agreements with solar and wind project developers to ensure a steady energy supply.
Singh elaborated on the company’s strategy, stating, “What we are planning is…whatever alumina we are producing, the power requirement for that alumina is very less. We have our own wind power plants in Andhra and we will have capacity in Tamil Nadu. So, we will be trying to divert all this to our refineries. So that whatever (alumina) production from our refineries we do that becomes totally green.” Currently, Nalco operates 200 MW of captive wind power but does not foresee complete decarbonization by 2030.
The company is considering expanding its renewable energy capacity further, potentially adding 200–300 MW of additional wind or hybrid model plants. Singh noted that government guidelines mandate that at least 35-40% of Nalco’s overall energy mix must come from renewable sources. To achieve this target, Nalco has engaged a consultancy to explore the adoption of solar, wind, or hybrid power solutions with battery storage.
In the fiscal year 2024, India produced 7.52 million tonnes of alumina, with Nalco contributing 2.04 million tonnes. Alumina serves as the primary raw material for aluminium production, which is essential in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Nalco’s commitment to green production comes amid a global push for decarbonization, with companies like Rio Tinto and India’s AMG Metals & Minerals exploring low-carbon aluminium projects powered by renewable energy.
The urgency for greener production methods has intensified due to the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which will impose tariffs on carbon-intensive imports, alongside similar measures being considered in Southeast Asia. Despite its focus on renewable energy, Nalco is also investing in coal to ensure a stable and cost-effective power supply for its aluminium operations.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is Nalco’s plan for green alumina production?**
A: Nalco plans to start producing green alumina by 2030, investing in renewable energy sources while maintaining some reliance on coal for stable power supply.
