CATL and APM Terminals Partner to Accelerate Electrification of Container Terminals

APM Terminals

Strategic Alliance Targets Zero-Emission Port Operations

China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) and Netherlands-based APM Terminals have signed a landmark agreement to drive the electrification of container terminal operations. The partnership aims to accelerate the global shift toward battery-electric container handling equipment through the Zero Emission Port Alliance.

Under the agreement, CATL will supply advanced batteries and integrated energy systems for APM Terminals’ electric fleet, including terminal tractors. This collaboration spans the full battery lifecycle, covering design, deployment, after-sales service, and recycling, ensuring a sustainable and circular approach to energy use in ports.

APM Terminals, an independent division of Danish shipping group AP Moller–Maersk, operates in more than 60 countries and is developing several new facilities. Together with Maersk, the company has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, integrating renewable power sources such as solar and wind into port operations.

Driving Efficiency and Sustainability in Global Trade

The electrification initiative also focuses on operational efficiency, with plans to reduce dwell times, optimize energy use, and deploy energy-saving infrastructure. By transitioning to battery-electric handling equipment, APM Terminals can significantly cut its carbon footprint while enhancing operational reliability and lowering long-term energy costs.

As the maritime logistics industry faces increasing regulatory and environmental pressures, this partnership positions both companies at the forefront of port decarbonization. The integration of CATL’s battery technology with APM Terminals’ global operations could serve as a scalable model for ports worldwide seeking to achieve zero-emission targets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The CATL–APM Terminals partnership signals a pivotal shift toward zero-emission port infrastructure. By combining battery innovation with operational expertise, the initiative could redefine industry standards for sustainable maritime logistics. The success of this collaboration may influence other port operators to accelerate similar decarbonization strategies.

Chinese PV Industry Faces Overcapacity and Profit Losses: IEA Reports

Iea(The International Energy Agency)

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has issued a concerning report highlighting the overcapacity and declining profitability in China’s photovoltaic (PV) industry, which is the dominant force in the global solar energy supply chain. The report, presented during a webinar this Thursday, sheds light on the financial struggles faced by major Chinese manufacturers such as JA Solar Technology and LONGi Green Energy Technology, which have reported significant losses in their recent financial statements.

According to Izumi Kaizuka, an analyst at the IEA, the mood at the 17th SNEC PV conference in Shanghai this June was grim. Kaizuka quoted the founder of GCL Group, a major PV manufacturer, who expressed concern that the Chinese PV industry is "entering an ice age" due to a severe imbalance in supply and demand. The report also highlighted the bankruptcy of Zhejiang Akcome, one of China’s leading PV manufacturers, earlier this year, with the IEA predicting more closures in the near future.

China's Dominance in Global PV Production

Despite the struggles at home, China continues to dominate the global PV industry. In 2023, China accounted for more than half of the 456GW of global solar power capacity added, and nine of the top 10 PV suppliers in the first half of 2024 were Chinese-owned. The country has increased its production share across all segments of the PV supply chain, including polysilicon, crystalline silicon wafers, solar cells, and PV modules, with its share reaching 92%, 98%, 92%, and 85%, respectively, in 2023.

The rapid expansion of China’s PV capacity is evident, with the country increasing its own year-on-year solar additions by 123% from 2022 to 2023, followed by Italy (113%) and Germany (109%). However, the global demand for PV capacity is pushing countries like the EU and the US to expand their own solar production capabilities, with the EU installing over 56GW in 2023 alone.

The EU's Push for Solar Manufacturing

In response to its growing reliance on Chinese imports, the European Union (EU) has set ambitious targets to scale up domestic production of PV panels. Under the Net-Zero Industry Act, the EU aims to produce at least 40% of its annual needs for strategic net-zero technologies—including solar panels—by 2030. With current production at under 5GW annually, the EU is planning to ramp up its manufacturing capacity to 30GW per year by 2030 in order to meet its renewable energy goals.

As the global PV market faces challenges like overcapacity and supply-demand imbalances, the role of China in driving production and the EU’s efforts to boost its domestic capabilities will shape the future of the solar industry.

Novelis Achieves Breakthrough Hydrogen Test for Aluminium Recycling at Latchford Plant

Novelis

Hydrogen Melting Furnace Cuts Carbon Emissions by Up to 90%

Net Zero Innovation Portfolio and HyNet Project Drive Industry Decarbonisation

Novelis, a leading US-based aluminium rolling and recycling company, has successfully tested hydrogen as a fuel for a recycling furnace at its Latchford, UK facility. The company reported that using hydrogen in the melting process can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional methods.

Hydrogen Technology Supports Major UK Decarbonisation Initiatives

These tests were conducted under the UK’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio and the regional HyNet project, both of which focus on low-carbon hydrogen production and industrial CO₂ capture. Novelis has participated in HyNet since 2017, supporting the shift to greener metals manufacturing across northwest England and north Wales.

The firm will now expand hydrogen-based, recycled alloy production processes at multiple European plants. Novelis also plans to publish results as part of the UK Industrial Fuel Switching programme later in 2024, sharing key findings with industry partners.

Latchford Expansion Doubles UBC Recycling and Cuts Emissions

In July 2023, Novelis announced a $90 million investment to more than double the Latchford plant’s used beverage can (UBC) recycling capacity. New equipment—including a dross house, shredding and melting systems—will boost recycling capacity by 85,000 t/year and lower annual carbon emissions by over 350,000 tonnes.

This hydrogen breakthrough supports Novelis’ broader push for sustainability and could drive innovation across global recycling operations. Latchford plant manager Allan Sweeney emphasized that these results will inspire further hydrogen research and deployment company-wide.

EIB and Deutsche Bank to Boost European Wind Power with €1 Billion Investment

In a significant push for renewable energy, the European Investment Bank (EIB) is set to provide a €500 million ($541 million) counter-guarantee to Deutsche Bank. This backing will enable Deutsche Bank to establish a €1 billion portfolio aimed at investing in wind farms across the European Union. This initiative marks the first step in the EIB's broader €5 billion plan to support wind power equipment manufacturers within Europe, a part of the EU's comprehensive wind power strategy designed to sustain a competitive and robust wind energy supply chain.

The EIB and Deutsche Bank's collaboration is expected to trigger private investments amounting to up to €8 billion. The EIB highlighted wind power as a significant success for the EU but acknowledged current challenges such as supply chain disruptions, inflation, and slow project permitting. The EU's net zero industry act, approved in May, aims to address these permitting issues and enhance the production rate of net zero technologies within the bloc.

The EIB's €5 billion initiative is projected to add 32GW of wind power capacity in the EU. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the share of wind and solar power in the EU's total energy supply is expected to increase to 30% this year, surpassing the output from fossil fuels.

As the EU's lending arm, owned by its member states, the EIB increased its climate finance to €44.3 billion last year. The bank ensures that all new projects it finances align with the Paris climate agreement and explicitly excludes investments in fossil fuels that do not contribute to CO2 emission reductions.

Mercedes bets on green aluminium from Norway's Hydro for next-gen CLA

Mercedes aluminium body

Mercedes is turning to green aluminium from Norway's Hydro to cut embedded emissions in its new CLA model. The green aluminium from Norway's Hydro is certified at just 3kg of CO₂ per kilogram of metal across mining, refining, smelting and casting. This compares with a global average of 16.7kg, giving Mercedes a meaningful reduction in material-related emissions. The alloy also contains 25pc post-consumer scrap, which further lowers its lifecycle footprint and supports circular-economy targets.

However, the company’s claim that CLA production is “net carbon-neutral” still depends on offsets. Mercedes powers the plant with 100pc renewable electricity, mainly externally sourced hydropower, which materially cuts scope 2 emissions. But scope 1 emissions from on-site processes and logistics, as well as upstream emissions from suppliers, remain. Therefore, the move to green aluminium from Norway's Hydro is a genuine step forward, even if the overall net-zero claim rests partly on controversial offset mechanisms that investors often scrutinise.

Green aluminium supports low-carbon steel and battery initiatives

The CLA’s use of green aluminium from Norway's Hydro forms part of a broader materials decarbonisation strategy. Mercedes says its latest battery cell design cuts emissions by about 30pc per cell through renewable energy in anode and cathode production. The company also relies on “net carbon-neutral” cell manufacturing at suppliers, since it does not produce cells in-house. As a result, the true impact depends on supplier practices and verification of their renewable power usage.

Meanwhile, Mercedes is layering in low-carbon steel to tackle emissions in chassis and body-in-white applications. The CLA incorporates steel from US producer Nucor’s Econiq-RE range, made using 100pc renewable energy. Mercedes also has a deal with Steel Dynamics for more than 50,000 t/yr of CO₂-reduced steel for its Tuscaloosa plant. Together with green aluminium from Norway's Hydro, these supply contracts show how OEMs are weaponising procurement to reduce embodied carbon ahead of incoming carbon border measures.

Demand for certified green aluminium rises faster than headline prices

Demand for certified low-carbon aluminium is rising as automakers prepare for tighter climate regulations and potential carbon border charges. Carmakers want to cut embedded emissions at the material level, especially for high-intensity metals such as aluminium and steel. This is likely to support growing premiums for Hydro’s Reduxa-style green aluminium grades and similar products from competitors. As a result, upstream smelters with renewable power and high scrap usage gain a strategic pricing advantage.

However, headline aluminium prices on global exchanges remain relatively stable despite bullish long-term forecasts. London Metal Exchange cash aluminium has traded in a narrow range over the past year, even as demand for differentiated “green” material accelerates. This suggests that the value is migrating into contract premiums and long-term offtake deals instead of the base price. Over time, producers unable to demonstrate low-carbon credentials may find themselves pushed into a discounted “grey” segment of the market.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Mercedes’ partnership around green aluminium from Norway's Hydro shows how decarbonisation is increasingly driven by procurement, not just tailpipe regulation. For metals producers, the message is clear: access to cheap renewable power and high-quality scrap streams will shape competitiveness more than pure tonnage growth. As carbon accounting tightens, the premium for verifiable low-carbon tonnes is likely to widen, rewarding early movers across the aluminium value chain.

India Waives Duties on Critical Minerals in 2024-25 Budget

In a strategic move to bolster key industrial sectors, India has announced the reduction or elimination of custom duties on 25 critical minerals, including lithium, copper, cobalt, and rare earths. However, the government will maintain its tax on copper scrap. This announcement was made by India's finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, during her 2024-25 fiscal year budget speech.

The full list of the 25 critical minerals has not been disclosed, but these minerals are deemed essential for industries such as nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defense, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics. Of these 25 minerals, 23 will be fully exempt from custom duties, while the remaining two will see a reduction in duties.

Additionally, India is launching a critical mineral mission to strengthen the supply chain for these essential minerals, encouraging both private and public sectors to enhance their long-term competitiveness.

The budget also includes significant reductions in customs duties on precious metals. Duties on gold and silver have been lowered to 6%, and platinum to 6.4%. Furthermore, the basic customs duty on ferro-nickel, crucial for stainless steel production, has been waived to improve domestic production efficiency.

The duty on copper scrap remains at 2.5%, but the duty on blister copper has been reduced to zero from 2.5%. This measure aims to support the domestic copper industry by lowering import costs.

In its efforts to support environmental goals, the government has continued the zero customs duty on ferrous scrap and nickel cathode, aligning with its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. A new carbon market will also be established to aid the steel and cement sectors in reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. The government plans to launch this domestic compliance carbon market by the end of the year to help industries meet their emissions intensity targets.

EU and UK Move Toward Linking Carbon Markets

EU and UK

The EU and UK have formally agreed to work toward linking their carbon emissions trading systems (ETS), a move expected to benefit both industries and climate policy alignment. The announcement, made during a summit in London, emphasized that a EU and UK carbon markets link would support fair trade and reduce carbon leakage between jurisdictions. According to the joint statement, such a link would also exempt both regions from their respective carbon border adjustment mechanisms (CBAM), providing a more level playing field for domestic industries while maintaining environmental ambition.

ETS Link Could Unlock Significant Economic Gains

The linking of the EU and UK carbon markets could generate significant cost savings. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer claimed British businesses could save £800 million in EU carbon taxes, while a recent industry-commissioned study projected up to €1.2 billion in savings from lower hedging costs due to improved market liquidity. While there is no timeline for implementation, market participants note that linking the Swiss ETS to the EU’s system took nearly a decade. Still, the potential economic efficiency and regulatory clarity have made the EU and UK carbon markets discussion a top priority for energy-intensive sectors across Europe.

Shared Climate Goals, Independent Ambitions

The agreement stressed that neither side should be constrained from pursuing more ambitious climate goals. The UK’s ETS remains guided by the legally binding Climate Change Act and its Paris Agreement commitments. The UK targets a 68% GHG reduction by 2030 and 81% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels. The EU aims for a 55% net reduction by 2030 and is still shaping its 2035 benchmark. Despite regulatory differences, both jurisdictions reaffirmed their commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. The agreement also includes cooperation on hydrogen, CCS, biomethane, and a potential UK entry into the EU’s internal power market—further aligning EU and UK carbon markets within a broader clean energy framework.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The potential linkage of EU and UK carbon markets signals a return to pragmatic climate diplomacy. While structural alignment will take time, the economic and environmental incentives suggest both sides are committed to meaningful integration—setting a precedent for future carbon market collaborations globally.

UK Investment Revives Cornish Tin Mine

Cornish Metals

The UK's National Wealth Fund (NWF) is investing £28.6mn ($35.6mn) to reopen Cornish Metals Inc's South Crofty tin mine in Cornwall. This initiative aims to bolster the UK's critical mineral supply.

Funding to De-risk Historic Tin Mine

The NWF, owned by HM Treasury, contributes to a £56mn funding effort. This investment will refurbish and maintain the South Crofty mine, closed since 1998 after 400 years of tin production. The government's support aligns with its strategy to secure critical minerals. "Critical minerals are not only an important driver of the UK's transition to net zero, but also of the UK's growth mission," stated NWF chief executive John Flint. This investment follows the NWF's £24mn investment in Cornish Lithium in August 2023. The LME three-month tin price settled at $30,175/t.

SUPER METAL PRICE Launches 'The Metals Grade Atlas' eBook: A Definitive Handbook for the Specialty Metals Industry

eBook: 'The Metals Grade Atlas'

An 815-page authoritative guide to titanium, nickel, and iron alloys sets a new global standard in advanced materials selection.

SUPER METAL PRICE, a global intelligence platform specializing in metals markets, has officially released The Metals Grade Atlas, a comprehensive digital reference for high-performance specialty metals used in modern industries.

A Complete Guidebook for Extreme Industrial Conditions in the 21st Century

This 815-page volume presents a systematic overview of materials engineered to withstand extreme environments, including aerospace, power generation, chemical processing, medical devices, and offshore platforms.

The Metals Grade Atlas provides essential data for materials capable of enduring ultra-high temperatures, corrosion, and mechanical stress—such as jet turbine blades operating above 1000°C, or gas turbines in power plants that function under thermal extremes exceeding 1200°C.

Covering the Full Spectrum of Titanium, Nickel, and Iron Alloys

The publication categorizes cutting-edge alloys into three key material families:

◎ Titanium Alloys – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant innovations

• Core material in aerospace applications for airframes, engine components, and landing gear
• Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio enhances fuel efficiency and payload
• Proven durability in chloride- and H₂S-rich offshore environments
• High biocompatibility and long-term stability for medical implants

◎ Nickel-based Superalloys – Designed to conquer extreme temperatures

• Resilient beyond 1200°C with excellent thermal and mechanical stability
• Ideal for turbine blades, combustors, and disks in power generation systems
• High resistance to creep, oxidation, and thermal cycling in jet engine hot zones
• Key material in high-temperature petrochemical reactors and heat exchangers

◎ Special Iron Alloys – The structural backbone of industrial infrastructure

• High-strength steels for shipbuilding, construction, automotive, and renewable energy
• Covers a wide range from ultra-high-strength to abrasion-resistant grades
• Enhanced fatigue performance and weldability in marine applications
• Delivers both weight reduction and crash safety in automotive structures
• Specialized grades for wind turbine towers and heavy-duty bearings

A Practical Data Library for Industry Professionals

Each alloy in The Metals Grade Atlas includes:

• Chemical composition and mechanical properties
• Corrosion resistance and high-temperature performance
• Fatigue strength and weldability indexes
• Real-world application examples and selection criteria
• Cost-performance considerations to support design decisions

Supporting Engineering Decision-Making

Going beyond material specifications, the book offers a structured framework for material selection in actual engineering practice. It assists professionals in benchmarking, processability assessment, and cost-performance analysis to guide optimal alloy choices.

A Strategic Companion for Industrial Innovation

SUPER METAL PRICE stated, "We sincerely hope this publication becomes a trusted and indispensable reference for design engineers, material scientists, and quality professionals striving to make precise, performance-driven, and economically sound material decisions."

The company further emphasized, "This book aims to serve as a compass for understanding, developing, and applying advanced metals in the pursuit of next-generation industrial innovation."

Global Market Insights and Future Outlook

With net-zero targets and energy transitions accelerating worldwide, demand for high-performance specialty metals is rising sharply. Policies such as the EU’s CBAM and the U.S. IRA have further highlighted the strategic value of specialty alloys. Industry experts have praised The Metals Grade Atlas as a long-awaited professional handbook that offers both comprehensive coverage and practical utility in the field.

Publication Details

• Title: The Metals Grade Atlas (eBook)
• Publisher: SUPER METAL PRICE
• Release Date: June 1, 2025
• Language: English
• File Size: 12.9MB
• Length: 815 pages

Available at: www.supermetalprice.com

About SUPER METAL PRICE

SUPER METAL PRICE is a global intelligence platform delivering in-depth analysis and real-time news on the metal markets. Its coverage spans steel, non-ferrous metals, rare earths, and energy-transition materials, with expert insights into pricing trends, tariffs, trade policies, and technical innovations across major regions including the U.S., Europe, China, and India.

Following The Metals Grade Atlas, the company plans to expand its specialty metals portfolio with future publications, including a Rare Earth Handbook and a Recycling Technology Guide.

Contact

Website: www.supermetalprice.com

eBook Purchase: Visit the digital download page

This press release is based on publicly available information from SUPER METAL PRICE.

BHP renewable power for copper projects accelerates South Australia’s low-carbon shift

BHP

BHP renewable power for copper projects is moving from strategy to execution in South Australia. The new deals with Neoen link Olympic Dam, Carrapateena and Prominent Hill to dedicated wind and battery assets, reshaping their long-term emissions profile. As a result, BHP renewable power for copper projects is becoming central to the group’s decarbonisation roadmap and its compliance with Australia’s safeguard mechanism.

Wind, storage and safeguard compliance for Olympic Dam

BHP will source 100MW of renewable electricity from Neoen’s 300MW Goyder North wind farm and 200MW Goyder battery. This follows an earlier contract for 70MW from Goyder South, which has supplied Olympic Dam since July. Together, these agreements should cover about 70pc of BHP’s copper-related electricity demand in South Australia by 2030.

Olympic Dam falls under Australia’s safeguard mechanism, where on-site generation counts towards covered scope 1 emissions. In 2023-24, Olympic Dam produced 244,321t of CO₂e, staying just below its 246,875t baseline. Therefore, BHP renewable power for copper projects is not just an ESG narrative but a direct tool for avoiding the surrender of additional ACCUs or safeguard credits.

Meanwhile, BHP still surrendered 47,000 ACCUs across 16 other facilities, including iron ore, coal and nickel operations. This highlights how decarbonisation progress remains uneven across the portfolio. However, the South Australian power strategy shows how dedicated renewable contracts can reduce both compliance risk and long-term power-price exposure.

Copper decarbonisation, diesel displacement and long-term risk

BHP is targeting a 30pc cut in operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2029-30 versus 2019-20 levels. The group has already reduced operational emissions to 8.7mn t CO₂e, a 36pc decline from that baseline. In this context, BHP renewable power for copper projects provides a tangible bridge between climate commitments and actual asset-level performance.

The company ultimately aims for net-zero operational emissions by 2050, mainly by displacing diesel in its mining fleets. Progress here has lagged because of technical delays in low-emission vehicle deployment. However, locking in large-scale renewable power for copper operations buys valuable time while mobile-equipment solutions mature.

For customers and policymakers, BHP renewable power for copper projects offers a clearer line of sight to lower-carbon copper supply. This matters as OEMs, grid operators and EV supply chains increasingly differentiate between standard and low-emission copper units. It also strengthens South Australia’s positioning as a hub for renewable-powered mining and processing.

The Metalnomist Commentary

BHP’s structured shift into contracted wind and storage underscores how decarbonisation is becoming a core competitiveness issue for copper miners. For metals buyers, the next phase will involve translating these renewable power deals into quantifiable, auditable carbon advantages at the cathode, rod and cable level.

SSAB Delays Lulea Fossil-Free Steel Mill Project by One Year

SSAB

Electricity Supply Delays Impact Lulea Mini-Mill Timeline

Swedish steelmaker SSAB has postponed the transformation of its Lulea facility into a fossil-free mini-mill by one year. The delay is attributed to setbacks in securing sufficient electricity supply, caused by regional grid upgrade issues. Construction of key substations has been hindered by outage planning problems, leaving the site without the power needed to operate its electric arc furnaces (EAF).

Investment and Production Targets at Risk

SSAB initially approved a €4.5bn investment in January 2022 to build the new mini-mill, replacing its existing blast furnace-based production. The facility will feature two EAFs, a direct strip rolling mill, and a cold rolling line for automotive steels. Once operational, the site is expected to produce 2.5mn t/yr of steel using both recycled scrap and fossil-free sponge iron from the Hybrid demonstration plant in Gallivare. Plans originally targeted 2028 for the first EAF to become operational, reaching full capacity in 2029. However, these milestones are now delayed by one year.

Despite the postponement, SSAB confirmed it will still move forward with EAF installation and maintain its long-term transition strategy. In late 2024, the company secured a €128mn grant from the European Commission to support the transition from coal-based production to a near net-zero emission system, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability despite the temporary setback.

The Metalnomist Commentary

SSAB’s delay underscores the critical role of reliable electricity infrastructure in steel sector decarbonisation. Without timely grid upgrades, even large investments risk losing momentum. The company’s continued push toward fossil-free steel highlights both the opportunities and challenges of Europe’s green industrial transition.

EGA Launches Digital System to Track Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA)

UAE-based Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has introduced a digital system to track Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions. The platform automates the monitoring, documentation, and independent third-party validation of emissions data. 

This centralised Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system will provide standardised dashboards to key stakeholders, including government organisations and customers.

The system aligns with the UAE’s integrated emissions and air quality tracking initiative, the first of its kind in the region, supporting the nation’s 2050 net-zero goal.

EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban stated, “Our MRV solution ensures compliance with regulatory changes while enhancing transparency and auditability across the production value chain.”

EU BEV Industry Faces Challenges Without Strong CO2 Targets and Tariffs

The European Union's battery electric vehicle (BEV) market is at risk of losing ground to Chinese-owned brands unless the EU enforces its planned CO2 emission reduction targets along with newly proposed tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). According to Transport & Environment (T&E), a leading environmental lobby group, these measures are essential to maintaining the competitive edge of European carmakers. The European Commission announced today that it will proceed with provisional tariffs on Chinese-manufactured EVs, signaling a critical step in addressing market imbalances.

CO2 Targets Key to Curbing Chinese BEV Imports

T&E's analysis shows a significant increase in the market share of Chinese-owned BEV brands, projecting that imports will constitute over 12% of the EU market this year, up from 8% last year. In contrast, non-Chinese brands are expected to see a slight rise to 13%. Without the enforcement of CO2 reduction targets, T&E forecasts that Chinese brands could capture nearly 15% of the market by next year, a trend that could weaken local BEV producers unless incentives are aligned to encourage a shift towards carbon-neutral vehicles.

The EU has established CO2 targets that require all automakers to achieve net zero emissions across their fleets by 2035, with interim milestones starting next year. However, recent debates and scrutiny have created uncertainty, prompting resistance from industry players. Aurelien De Meaux, CEO of Electra, a Paris-based charging start-up, emphasized the need for policy stability, stating, "The path to 2035, including specific CO2 milestones, was established in 2014 and 2019. We rely on this stability to make informed and effective investments."

Tariffs Alone May Not Protect Western BEV Producers

While the European Commission's provisional tariffs aim to level the playing field, a report by the Rhodium Group suggests that tariffs alone might not suffice. Chinese brands continue to enjoy profit margins that can absorb the costs of EU tariffs, whereas Western brands like Tesla and BMW, which manufacture in China, could see diminished profitability if tariffs are enforced. This dynamic has led to concerns that the tariffs may inadvertently harm European carmakers with overseas production facilities.

Additionally, China's response to these tariffs has included the potential for retaliatory measures on other goods, and its automakers are considering expanding production capacity overseas. Since 2022, 11 Chinese-owned EV plants have been planned in Europe, but only three have advanced past initial planning, primarily due to tariff uncertainties.

The situation is further complicated by instability in the battery production sector. According to T&E, 59% of the planned battery production capacity in Europe is "less likely" to proceed by 2030, adding to the challenges faced by the EU's BEV industry. Maintaining a clear and consistent regulatory approach will be crucial to incentivizing local production and reducing dependency on imports, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Europe's BEV market.

Toyota Launches UK Battery Recycling Plant to Advance Circular Economy Goals

Toyota, UK Battery Recycling

Burnaston Facility Will Recover Key EV Battery Materials and Support EU Carbon Neutrality Targets

Toyota Builds First Circular Factory in the UK

Toyota has announced plans to open a new battery recycling plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire, UK. The site will process end-of-life electric vehicles and recover critical battery materials such as nickel, cobalt, lithium, and graphite. This project marks the automaker’s first “Toyota Circular Factory,” aimed at promoting material reuse and sustainability.

The new facility, built on the grounds of Toyota’s existing Corolla production plant, will process up to 10,000 vehicles annually during its initial phase. In addition to batteries, the factory will recycle other vehicle parts to minimize waste and environmental impact.

Expansion Across Europe and Net-Zero Ambitions

Toyota Motor Europe’s Vice President of Circular Economy, Leon van der Merwe, confirmed that the UK facility is just the beginning. “As a next step for the Toyota Circular Factory concept, we plan to roll out similar operations across Europe,” he said. He also stressed the company's openness to collaborating with other organizations focused on circularity and carbon neutrality.

The initiative aligns with Toyota’s broader sustainability commitments. The company aims to achieve full carbon neutrality across all operations by 2040 and reduce vehicle carbon emissions in Europe by 100% by 2035. This recycling plant will play a crucial role in achieving these targets by closing the loop on electric vehicle battery materials.

UK and India to Collaborate on Critical Minerals and Semiconductors through New Initiative

The United Kingdom and India have agreed to enhance their cooperation on critical minerals, semiconductors, and emerging technologies under a newly established Technology Security Initiative (TSI). This initiative is designed to expand research and development (R&D) efforts between the two countries, aiming to bolster their respective capabilities in these crucial sectors.

The TSI will facilitate policy exchanges on strategies and R&D partnerships to foster collaboration on critical minerals. A key component of this initiative is the establishment of an observatory involving the University of Cambridge and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) at Dhanbad and Bombay. This observatory will serve as a data-sharing platform for critical minerals and supply chains, enhancing transparency and coordination.

Moreover, increased collaboration is anticipated between the British Geological Survey, the Geological Survey of India, and state-controlled producer Indian Rare Earths. These efforts will concentrate on improving the exploration and identification of rare earth element deposits, which are vital for various high-tech industries.

Additionally, universities in the UK and India are expected to form partnerships to develop technology for extracting critical minerals from end-of-life waste streams. One of the notable goals is the establishment of a joint Critical Minerals Recycling Centre in India, aimed at recycling advanced military waste and other waste streams.

Regarding semiconductors, the TSI will emphasize R&D collaborations on strategic issues such as supply chain resilience, skills exchanges, and hardware security. The initiative seeks to enable academic and industrial collaborations on compound semiconductors, chip design, intellectual property, and advanced packaging. These efforts will target strategic applications including net-zero technologies, advanced telecommunications, and cybersecurity.

Norwegian Sovereign Wealth Fund Pressures Miners on Environmental Performance

Norwegian fund

Norges Bank to engage Rio Tinto and South32 over Amazon bauxite mine

Norwegian wealth fund mining engagement is intensifying as the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund targets environmental risks tied to major mining firms. Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), which oversees Norway’s $1.8 trillion fund, announced it will engage Rio Tinto and South32 over serious environmental concerns related to their joint bauxite mining operations in the Amazon.

Environmental concerns prompt active ownership, not exclusion

While the fund’s ethics council recommended exclusion, NBIM chose instead to pursue active ownership over the next 5–10 years. The companies’ involvement in environmentally sensitive mining areas poses “an unacceptable risk” of severe damage, the fund noted. This shift signals a more interventionist strategy focused on influencing corporate behavior rather than immediate divestment.

Meanwhile, the fund reversed its 2020 exclusion of German utility RWE, citing credible progress on coal phase-out and renewable energy expansion. RWE will now remain under observation rather than full exclusion.

Climate alignment remains a key investment mandate

Norway’s finance ministry mandates that all fund investments align with the Paris Agreement’s net-zero goals. The fund reported a 30% reduction in financed emissions from 2017 to 2024 and has excluded or monitored nearly 200 companies, many tied to coal-related activities. The ongoing Norwegian wealth fund mining engagement reflects a broader climate-risk approach to portfolio stewardship.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Norway’s sovereign fund is signaling that climate accountability is no longer optional for global miners. By leveraging shareholder engagement instead of divestment, the fund aims to enforce ESG performance in high-impact sectors without relinquishing influence over corporate governance.

Stellantis to Launch Solid-State Battery EVs by 2026

Stellantis

Stellantis, a leading global automaker, plans to integrate solid-state batteries into its Dodge-branded electric vehicles (EVs) by 2026. This initiative is part of a collaboration with US-based battery start-up Factorial, in which Stellantis invested $75 million in 2021.

Breakthrough in Battery Technology

Factorial’s solid-state battery technology offers a significant leap in energy density, delivering up to 390Wh/kg. This surpasses current benchmarks for:

• Nickel and cobalt-based (NCM) batteries: Up to 300Wh/kg.
• Lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries: Around 160Wh/kg.

This technology is expected to provide a driving range exceeding 600 miles for the Dodge Charger Daytona EV, positioning it as a game-changer in the EV market.

Industry Implications

Factorial has attracted investments from other prominent automakers, including Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai, underscoring the industry’s focus on advancing battery efficiency and performance.

Siyu Huang, founder and CEO of Factorial, stated:

"We believe solid-state technology can be crucial in enabling the next generation of EVs with improved performance and reduced costs."

Stellantis’ Expanding EV Portfolio

Stellantis, which owns 14 automotive brands including Fiat, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, and Vauxhall, aims to solidify its position in the rapidly growing EV market by leveraging advanced battery technologies.

With solid-state batteries offering enhanced safety, higher energy density, and reduced charging times, this move aligns with Stellantis’ long-term sustainability goals and its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2038.

Embraer Commits $3.4 Billion to Boost Aircraft Production and Cut CO2 Emissions by 2030

Embraer

Brazilian Aerospace Giant Plans Global Expansion and Sustainable Tech Development Under New National Industry Strategy

Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer has announced a R$20 billion ($3.4 billion) investment plan through 2030, aiming to expand production and significantly reduce carbon emissions. The commitment aligns with Brazil’s new industrial strategy, supported by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, who also serves as the trade and industry minister.

Although Embraer has not detailed exact production increases or the scale of CO₂ reductions, the investment highlights the firm’s drive toward a more sustainable and competitive aerospace future. The funding will also support international market growth and development of green aviation technologies.

Embraer Expands Global Reach with Major Flexjet Deal

As part of its international expansion, Embraer recently secured a major contract with Flexjet, a U.S.-based luxury private jet operator. The deal, valued at up to $7 billion, includes orders for at least 182 aircraft, strengthening Embraer’s position in the high-end private aviation market.

In 2024, the company delivered 206 aircraft, marking a 14% increase from the 181 units sold in 2023. This performance reinforces Embraer’s global standing as one of the largest aircraft manufacturers and a key player in the commercial and executive aviation segments.

Sustainable Aviation at the Forefront of Embraer’s Strategy

Embraer’s push to develop low-carbon aviation technologies reflects growing pressure on the aerospace sector to decarbonize. As governments and companies target net-zero emissions, investments in sustainable aviation fuel, hybrid propulsion systems, and improved manufacturing efficiency will be critical.

This bold step from Embraer supports Brazil’s broader goals of boosting industrial productivity while committing to environmental sustainability. The company continues to lead Latin America’s aerospace innovation while expanding its global influence.

Hydro Energy AS Enhances Sustainability with a Decade-Long Renewable Power Deal

A Energi

Strategic Shift Towards Renewable Energy

Norwegian firm Hydro Energy AS has committed to a significant enhancement in sustainability by signing a 10-year power purchase agreement with domestic renewable energy producer A Energi. This deal, set to commence in 2025, secures 438 GWh per year of electricity for Hydro’s aluminium production facilities in Norway, aligning with the regional electricity rates of Norway's NO3 region.

A Sustainable Future for Aluminium Production

The agreement forms a crucial part of Hydro’s ambitious plan to cut emissions by 30% by 2030 from its 2018 levels, with a long-term goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. By utilizing renewable energy, Hydro aims to drastically reduce the carbon footprint of its aluminium production. According to the company, their operations are already 75% cleaner in terms of carbon emissions compared to the global average for aluminium production.

EGA to Pilot Innovative Smelting Technology at Al Taweelah

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) announced this week that it will construct 10 pilot reduction cells at its Al Taweelah aluminium smelter, marking the completion of the design phase for its new EX smelting technology.

The innovative EX cells come in two variants: one designed to maximize production volumes and the other to reduce carbon emissions. These cells are larger than those using EGA's recently industrialized DX+ Ultra technology, offering greater energy efficiency and boosting production capacity by up to 22%. Additionally, the new technology is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 12% through more efficient anode usage.

"EX technology will enable the production of more aluminium with less energy and lower emissions, unlocking opportunities for EGA's growth and helping us to meet the increasing global demand for the low-carbon primary aluminium required to reach net zero by 2050," said Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, EGA's chief executive.

The pilot reduction cells are slated for commissioning in the first quarter of 2025, with EGA aiming for full industrialization of the new technology by 2028.