EGA Explores Clean Energy Opportunities in Indonesia Amid Nuclear Claim Clarification

Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) is evaluating clean energy opportunities in Indonesia following a clarification that it has no plans to build a nuclear power plant in the country. The Indonesian government updated its statement after initially suggesting EGA aimed to develop a nuclear facility with a capacity of up to 5 gigawatts.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Economic Affairs revised its announcement as part of a broader push to secure low-carbon power sources for industrial expansion, including aluminum smelting growth in North Sumatra. While confirming its continued interest in Indonesia’s energy and industrial sectors, EGA stated, “EGA is not in the nuclear power business, so with all respect, the accounting of this aspect is inaccurate.”

Indonesia currently lacks operational nuclear capacity but is actively attracting investments to strengthen its mineral processing industry. The government is leveraging its reserves of nickel, copper, and bauxite to draw foreign investors.

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

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. Hartarto also met with Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of UAE renewable energy firm Masdar, during the World Government Summit.

Their discussions included updates on key renewable energy projects in Indonesia, such as a 145-megawatt floating solar power plant in West Java and plans for a gas pipeline linking Aceh to East Java. These initiatives align with Indonesia’s efforts to enhance energy security while advancing sustainable industrial development.