Impact of energy on the production of aluminum and the geographical distribution of primary aluminum plants

The Hall–Héroult process is currently the major industrial process for the production of aluminum which utilizes electrometallurgical reduction. %80 of production cost largely depends on the price of alumina, electricity and carbon materials, with the rest divided between labor, additives, maintenance and repairment. Electric power represents about 20% to 40% of the cost of producing aluminum, depending on the location of the smelter. Energy issues have a profound impact on the location and production of aluminum as well as environmental issues related to production. During the past decade scientists and producers have sought to save energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce aluminum production costs, and increase productivity. The industry is a large consumer of both natural gas and electricity, with natural gas consumed in the anode baking plant and electricity in the potroom for electrolyzing of aluminum. This paper seeks to give a brief account of the current status and challenges of energy sources across the world in general and Iran in particular. The authors will also dwell on the effects of available energy sources such as hydroelectric, gas and steam on the geographic location of aluminum smelters. In conclusion this paper offers suggestions on how to overcome the existing challenges and assist the expansion on the industry on a national level.