Sohar Aluminium Advances Sustainability Efforts

Sohar Aluminium, a leading aluminium smelter in Oman, is intensifying its focus on sustainability through enhanced energy efficiency and decarbonisation initiatives. These efforts align with Oman’s Vision 2040, aiming to position the company as a key player in the global shift towards low-carbon aluminium production.

Established in 2008 as a joint venture between OQ Group, Emirates Global Aluminium, and OAPIL, Sohar Aluminium operates a smelter in Sohar’s industrial port area with an annual capacity of 390,000 tonnes of high-purity aluminium. The company is implementing advanced technologies to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, critical steps in addressing the aluminium industry’s high environmental footprint. Aluminium production globally accounts for 2% of emissions, with smelting consuming significant electricity, often from fossil fuel sources. Sohar’s initiatives include optimising smelting processes and exploring renewable energy integration to lower its carbon intensity.

A key focus is on energy efficiency, with upgrades to its AP36 smelting technology reducing power usage by 10% per tonne of aluminium produced. The company is also investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS) systems to mitigate direct emissions from its smelter and power plant, which generates 1,000 MW of electricity. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to align with global decarbonisation goals, such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which imposes tariffs on high-carbon imports. Posts on X highlight Sohar’s commitment to Oman’s green industrial transition, noting its role in sustainable development.

Sohar Aluminium is also advancing circular economy principles by increasing the use of recycled aluminium, which requires only 5% of the energy needed for primary production. This aligns with global trends, as secondary aluminium output in China grew to 1.94 million tonnes in 2023, driven by recycling incentives. The company’s partnership with the Athar Healthcare Endowment Foundation, signed on June 22, 2025, supports community health initiatives, reinforcing its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments. The MoU directs donations towards sustainable healthcare projects in Oman, enhancing local development.

India’s aluminium sector provides context for Sohar’s efforts. The Aluminium Vision Document, released on July 4, 2025, in Hyderabad, outlines India’s roadmap for sustainable aluminium growth, with companies like Vedanta adopting zero liquid discharge (ZLD) models using advanced treatment systems. Sohar is similarly exploring ZLD to minimise water waste, crucial in Oman’s arid climate. The global aluminium industry is seeing increased demand, with Guinea’s bauxite exports rising 39% in Q1 2025 to meet production needs. Sohar’s focus on efficiency positions it to compete in this dynamic market.

Challenges include the high capital costs of CCS and renewable energy adoption, as well as Oman’s reliance on gas-based power, which accounts for 80% of its electricity. Critics argue that without faster transitions to renewables, decarbonisation goals may fall short. The company is collaborating with technology providers like Hazelett and FSM Automation to adopt advanced casting and automation, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. These innovations mirror global efforts, such as the UK Aluminium Alliance’s push for low-carbon manufacturing.

Sohar Aluminium’s sustainability initiatives are a step towards aligning with Oman’s net-zero ambitions and global environmental standards. By prioritising efficiency, recycling, and community engagement, the company is contributing to a greener aluminium industry while supporting economic and social development.

Source: Alcircle