By M Dowling
Century Aluminum (CENX) and Emirates Global Aluminum announced plans Monday to build the first new primary aluminum production plant in the U.S. since 1980, in a joint venture to be owned 60% by EGA and 40% by Century.
The new plant, to be built in Inola, Oklahoma, is expected to produce 750K metric tons/year of aluminum, larger than previously planned and more than doubling current U.S. production.
The companies said the project will use EGA’s latest state-of-the-art EX technology, the most advanced ever installed in the U.S.
The Importance of Aluminum
Aluminum continues to grow in importance for the USA. It is multifaceted and key to national security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Aluminum is a critical strategic material that is used in military vehicles, aircraft, and renewable energy systems.
The aluminum industry directly employs over 164,000 workers and indirectly employs another 535,000 workers. It generates over $228 billion in economic output.