斯洛伐克寻求欧盟支持以重启大型铝厂

Core Viewpoint - The Slovak government aims to restart the Slovalco aluminum plant, which was once one of Europe's largest primary aluminum producers, to reduce dependence on non-European imports and address high electricity prices affecting competitiveness [1][2]. Group 1: Slovalco Plant Details - The Slovalco plant has a maximum capacity of approximately 200,000 tons per year and was closed in August 2022 due to high electricity prices that made production uncompetitive [1]. - The plant's carbon footprint is significantly lower than that of some current aluminum suppliers to Europe, being about one-fifth of theirs [1]. - Local management indicated that production could resume as early as summer if all necessary conditions are met [3]. Group 2: European Aluminum Market Context - Europe's primary aluminum capacity has shrunk to about 1.2 million tons annually after the closure of approximately 1.5 million tons of capacity, with 70%-80% of the annual demand of 6-7 million tons relying on imports, mainly from China and Africa [1]. - Recent supply challenges have arisen from production cuts in Iceland and Mozambique, which are significant aluminum import sources for the EU [4]. Group 3: Government Initiatives and Support - The Slovak government plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with Slovalco to ensure at least 10 years of continued aluminum production, which is the minimum timeframe needed for resuming operations [2]. - The government is advocating for EU-level solutions to address high electricity prices, including potential long-term exemptions from carbon emissions quota payments [2]. Group 4: Market Trends and Pricing - Aluminum prices increased by 11.8% from October to December, with the three-month aluminum price on the London Metal Exchange reaching $3,185 per ton as of January 12, reflecting a rise of $170 since the beginning of the year [5].