India’s fertile ground for low-carbon aluminium draws Rio Tinto’s next green project - here’s a detailed look at it

India’s expanding renewable energy capacity and strong government support for sustainable manufacturing are drawing increased interest from global companies, including Rio Tinto. On Thursday, April 17, the global mining giant Rio Tinto announceda collaboration with energy transition solutions provider AMG Metals & Materials (AMG M&M) to develop an integrated low-carbon aluminium project in southern India.

Rio Tinto and AMG M&M have reportedly signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), which states both parties will jointly assess the feasibility of the project that will potentially produce up to 1 million tonnes of primary aluminium in a year and 2 million tonnes of alumina, both powered by 1.8–2.0 GW of solar and wind energy backed by pumped hydro storage, translating to 7–8 GW of clean power.

The feasibility study will be initiated by assessing the project's first phase of manufacturing 500,000 tonnes of primary aluminium in a year.

Anil Chalamalasetty and Mahesh Kolli, the co-founders of Greenko and AM Green, promote AMG M&M. Greenko focuses on renewable energy, while AM Green is involved in renewable energy-based chemical and fuel production.

As part of the study, Rio Tinto will explore a commercial alumina solution, and AMG M&M will examine a firmed renewable energy solution with Greenko as part of the study.

Rio Tinto Aluminium Chief Executive Jérôme Pécresse, said: “This study is an important step in our ambition to grow our global, low-carbon aluminium footprint while exploring new project delivery approaches and opportunities in emerging markets. Partnering with AMG Metals & Materials enables us to assess how we can develop low-cost responsible aluminium production powered by renewable energy. With its rapid economic growth and strategic position, India is a compelling location for this potential project and aligns with our long-term vision for a globally more diverse and resilient aluminium business.”

Group President of AMG Metals & Materials and Greenko, Mahesh Kolli, said: “Over the last few years, we have been able to deliver a multitude of decarbonisation solutions comprising electricity, molecules, chemicals and fuels. We are excited to expand that further to the materials space. This MOU could deliver much needed low-carbon metal at scale to propel decarbonisation initiatives in global supply chains across auto, construction, consumer packaging and many more segments.”

What makes Rio Tinto come back to India?