Emirates Global Aluminum Explores Clean Energy in Indonesia Amid Nuclear Power Clarification

Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) is exploring alternative clean energy opportunities in Indonesia, according to an updated statement from the Indonesian government. This follows a clarification from EGA, which denied earlier claims that it planned to build a nuclear power plant in the country.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Economic Affairs issued a revised statement on Saturday, amending its initial announcement that had suggested EGA intended to develop a nuclear facility with a capacity of up to 5 gigawatts. The correction comes as part of Indonesia’s broader efforts to secure low-carbon power sources for expanding industrial operations, including increasing aluminum smelting capacity in North Sumatra.

An EGA spokesperson clarified via email that “EGA is not in the nuclear power business, so with all respect, the accounting of this aspect is inaccurate.” However, the company reaffirmed its interest in Indonesia’s industrial and energy sector.

Indonesia’s Industrial Expansion and Energy Needs

Indonesia currently has no operational nuclear power capacity but has been actively seeking investments to develop its mineral processing industry. The government has been leveraging its extensive reserves of nickel, copper, and bauxite to attract foreign investment.

EGA, which previously agreed in 2022 to support the expansion of Indonesia Asahan Aluminum’s smelting capacity by up to 400,000 tons annually, remains engaged in discussions on industrial growth and energy solutions.

On Wednesday, Indonesia’s Senior Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto met with EGA CEO Abdulnasser Ibrahim Saif Bin Kalban in Dubai to discuss the future of the aluminum industry. During his visit to the World Government Summit, Airlangga also held talks with Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of UAE renewable energy firm Masdar.

The discussions included updates on key renewable energy projects in Indonesia, such as a 145-megawatt floating solar power plant in West Java and the development of a gas pipeline connecting Aceh to East Java. These initiatives align with Indonesia’s strategy to enhance energy security while promoting sustainable industrial growth.