Global mining company Rio Tinto has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AMG Metals and Materials (AMG M&M), an energy transition solutions provider, to jointly assess the feasibility of developing an integrated low-carbon aluminium project in India. AMG M&M is backed by the founders of Greenko and AM Green, bringing deep expertise in clean energy solutions.
Project Scope: Clean Aluminium at Scale
The partners are evaluating the development of a facility with up to one million tons per annum (Mtpa) of primary aluminium production and 2 Mtpa of alumina refining capacity, powered entirely by renewable wind and solar energy, supported by pumped hydro storage.
As a first step, the study will focus on a potential 5,00,000 TPA aluminium smelter in a strategically selected location in India.
“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,” said Jérôme Pécresse, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto Aluminium.
“India’s rapid growth and strategic location make it an ideal setting for responsible aluminium production powered by renewables,” Pécresse added.
Leveraging Strengths to Drive Innovation
As part of Rio Tinto and AMG collaboration:
- AMG M&M will work with Greenko to design a firmed renewable energy solution to ensure 24/7 clean power supply.
- Rio Tinto will explore commercial options for alumina sourcing and processing.
The study will also assess advanced smelting technologies to identify the most cost-effective and sustainable solutions.
Accelerating Decarbonization Across Supply Chains
“We’ve successfully delivered a range of decarbonization solutions—from electricity to fuels. Now, we’re expanding into materials,” said Mahesh Kolli, Group President of AMG M&M and Greenko.
“This MoU has the potential to supply low-carbon aluminium at scale, supporting global decarbonization across industries like automotive, construction, packaging, and beyond,” Kolli added.
Paving the Way for Clean Materials Manufacturing
The initiative underscores Rio Tinto’s long-term strategy to diversify and decarbonize its aluminium portfolio while unlocking opportunities in emerging markets. As per the press release, if successful, the project could establish a new benchmark for sustainable metals production in India. It could also serve as a global model for green industrial growth.
