Aluminium Dunkerque Partners with EDF for a Decade of Low-Carbon Electricity Supply

Aluminium Dunkerque and EDF Sign Major Electricity Supply Agreement

In a significant move towards sustainability and energy efficiency, Aluminium Dunkerque (AD) and EDF have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a long-term electricity supply agreement that spans 10 years. This collaboration, signed on May 15, 2025, sets the stage for a new chapter in energy management for the industrial sector, particularly in the aluminium production sphere.

Details of the MoU

The agreement outlines the commitment of both parties to finalize a more comprehensive electricity supply contract by the end of July 2025, with the supply set to commence on January 1, 2026. Under this MoU, Aluminium Dunkerque will benefit from low-carbon electricity, which will significantly help in reducing its carbon footprint and achieving its decarbonization targets.

One of the primary advantages of this agreement is the upfront payment commitment from Aluminium Dunkerque to EDF. This financial aspect not only demonstrates AD's dedication to transitioning towards sustainable practices but also enables EDF to deliver the required energy solutions effectively. Moreover, the contract includes balanced mechanisms that will share risks and benefits between both parties, ensuring a fair and strategic partnership.

Aluminium Dunkerque will also have the opportunity to supplement its electricity supply with nuclear origin guarantees, emphasizing the commitment to integrating low-carbon energy sources into its operations. This is a crucial development given the heightened awareness and focus on carbon emissions in today's industrial landscape.

Industrial Impact and Decarbonization

The MoU was signed during the inauguration of Furnace 8 at the Loon-Plage site, marking a salient moment in Aluminium Dunkerque’s expansion and sustainability initiatives. This investment aligns with France's ambition of promoting a circular economy and bolstering local employment, which is particularly vital in today’s fluctuating economic environment.

Guillaume de Goÿs, President and CEO of Aluminium Dunkerque, commented on the significance of the agreement, stating that the end of the historic ARENH mechanism at the close of 2025 heralds a transformative period for electro-intensive industries, especially those consuming large amounts of electricity like AD. He expressed gratitude towards EDF for aiding in the establishment of a long-term contract that shields them from the unpredictable nature of energy markets, thus supporting their operational stability in a highly competitive global aluminium market.

EDF’s Commitment to Industrial Growth

Bernard Fontana, Chairman and CEO of EDF, emphasized the critical nature of this partnership. He noted that by facilitating a long-term supply of low-carbon electricity, Aluminium Dunkerque could enhance its operational performance and financial forecasting. This engagement not only reinforces EDF's dedication to supporting industrial growth but also contributes to France's energy sovereignty, showcasing a cohesive approach towards a sustainable future.

The EDF Group has been a leader in the energy transition, focusing on integrating renewable and low-carbon sources into its energy mix. With an output characterized by 94% decarbonization, EDF is working to ensure that its clients, like Aluminium Dunkerque, can navigate the complexities of energy consumption and sustainability effectively.

Looking Ahead

As both Aluminium Dunkerque and EDF move forward with this agreement, the implications extend beyond operational efficiencies. It signifies a pivotal shift in how industries approach energy consumption, especially concerning environmental responsibility. The transition towards low-carbon energy sources is not merely a regulatory requirement but an evolving industrial standard driven by competitive necessity and social responsibility.

By committing to this long-term electricity supply agreement, both companies are not just planning for the future; they are actively shaping it. The culmination of efforts towards sustainable practices could set a benchmark for other industries striving to align with global climate goals. Thus, this partnership between Aluminium Dunkerque and EDF represents more than a business deal; it's a strategic alliance towards a greener and more sustainable future.

In summary, the signed MoU paves the way for significant advancements in industrial sustainability, potentially influencing the landscape of aluminium production in Europe and beyond.