- Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) denies plans to build a nuclear plant in Indonesia but explores clean energy opportunities.
- EGA aims to increase aluminium production by 400,000 tons annually at the Indonesian Asahan Aluminium smelter.
- Indonesia and the UAE discuss renewable energy projects, including a 145-megawatt floating solar power plant and a gas pipeline from Aceh to East Java.
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) explores clean energy opportunities in Indonesia while denying any plans to build a nuclear power plant. Indonesia’s Ministry of Economic Affairs corrected its statement after the EGA rejected earlier reports.
The initial statement claimed that EGA intended to construct a 5-gigawatt nuclear plant in North Sumatra to address low-carbon power shortages. This plant aimed to support efforts to boost capacity at an aluminium smelter. However, EGA quickly clarified, stating, “We are not in the nuclear power business.” The company expressed interest in Indonesia but confirmed that nuclear energy does not align with its strategy.
Indonesia operates without any nuclear power infrastructure. Instead, it focuses on other forms of clean energy and industrial development. EGA committed to increasing production capacity at the Indonesian Asahan Aluminium smelter, which could raise output by up to 400,000 tons annually.
This expansion aligns with Indonesia’s broader strategy to grow its mineral processing industry. The country, rich in minerals like nickel, copper, and bauxite, continues to attract foreign investment, with the government pushing for local economic growth.
Indonesia’s Senior Economic Minister, Airlangga Hartarto, met with EGA CEO Abdulnasser Ibrahim Saif Bin Kalban in Dubai. They discussed aluminium sector development and clean energy opportunities. EGA’s investment aligns with Indonesia’s goal of expanding its industrial capacity.
Minister Airlangga met with Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of UAE-based renewable energy firm Masdar, during the World Government Summit in Dubai. They focused on joint energy projects in Indonesia. One key project involves a 145-megawatt floating solar power plant on a reservoir in West Java. The solar project supports Indonesia’s renewable energy ambitions.
Another significant project involves developing a gas pipeline from Aceh to East Java. The pipeline aims to strengthen Indonesia’s energy infrastructure and support industrial growth. The collaboration between Indonesia and UAE companies emphasises their commitment to advancing clean energy in the region.
Both countries prioritise expanding energy partnerships. Indonesia seeks to attract international investors to modernise its energy infrastructure. The government aims to meet industrial demands while maintaining environmental sustainability.
EGA’s expansion within Indonesia contributes to the aluminium industry and clean energy goals. The company’s decision to avoid nuclear power aligns with Indonesia’s current focus on renewable energy.
Indonesia continues pushing for industrial growth, with clean energy development remaining a top priority. Partnerships with companies like EGA and Masdar reinforce the country’s commitment to achieving a sustainable future for its energy and industrial sectors.