小米、美的等空调开启“铝代铜”？但格力不参与，董明珠反对？

Core Insights - The air conditioning industry is undergoing a significant transformation with major brands like Haier, Midea, Hisense, TCL, Aux, and Xiaomi establishing a standard for replacing copper with aluminum in core components [1][5]. Industry Overview - Traditionally, copper has been the primary metal used in air conditioning systems due to its excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance [3]. - The rising copper prices, which have increased by 35% this year and surpassed $12,000 per ton, pose a significant cost pressure on the air conditioning industry, especially since 80% of the copper used in China is imported [5]. Cost and Supply Chain Implications - The shift to aluminum is seen as a strategy to reduce costs and mitigate supply chain risks associated with heavy reliance on imported copper [5][7]. - Aluminum is significantly cheaper than copper, and China produces 60% of the world's electrolytic aluminum, ensuring a stable supply [7]. Competitive Landscape - Notably, Gree, a major player in the air conditioning market, has opted not to participate in the aluminum standard due to concerns about the durability and stability of aluminum compared to copper [7]. - This decision raises questions about consumer preferences, as brands using aluminum may offer lower prices while Gree maintains higher prices with copper, potentially affecting market dynamics [9].