The Clean Energy Buyers Association (CEBA) has lauded the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) for selecting Century Aluminum's proposal for a new primary aluminum smelter. The proposed construction site for the smelter is in the Mississippi River Basin, with Kentucky being the preferred location.
A press release from the U.S. Department of Energy reveals that Century’s proposal is one among 33 projects chosen for the Industrial Demonstrations Program. Collectively, these projects represent a $6 billion investment across 20 states aimed at decarbonizing energy-intensive industries and reducing industrial greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative also focuses on job creation and revitalization of industrial communities.
In a press release from CEBA, it was stated that Century’s proposed primary smelter will utilize carbon-free electricity to minimize emissions. The association anticipates that this project, which marks the first new primary aluminum facility to be built in the United States in over four decades, will double domestic primary aluminum production and generate thousands of jobs.
The same CEBA press release also highlighted how the aluminum industry has grappled with high energy costs and outdated, polluting facilities for an extended period. The association perceives Century's project as a significant stride towards aluminum decarbonization.
Jen Snook, deputy director of Transaction Acceleration at CEBA, said in the press release, "Aluminum is a key component needed for an array of energy technologies, including solar, wind, batteries, transmission, and electric vehicles. A clean energy future will require more aluminum made using zero-carbon electricity. This announcement of a new lower-carbon smelter will help ensure our clean energy transition is truly clean."
Lane Boldman, executive director of the Kentucky Conservation Committee was quoted in the press release saying: "Kentucky has always represented some of the hardest working Americans when it comes to industry and energy." He added, "Century’s Sebree smelter operates in Kentucky currently, along with their Hawesville smelter that was curtailed in 2022. We are hopeful that their new facility will find a home in Kentucky, and provide good jobs along with healthier air and water quality while supporting a critical industry for the state."
