Mining giant Rio Tinto has teamed up with AMG Metals & Materials (AMG M&M), a provider of clean energy transition solutions, to explore the possibility of establishing a large-scale, low-emission aluminium production facility in India. The collaboration is formalized through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Backed by the founders of Greenko and AM Green, AMG M&M will work with Rio Tinto to assess the potential for developing an integrated operation that includes an aluminium smelter with an annual capacity of up to one million tonnes, and a supporting alumina plant with a two million tonne per year output—both powered by renewable sources such as solar and wind, with pumped hydro providing storage. The first phase of the project under review involves a 500,000-tonne-per-year smelter in a strategically chosen Indian location.
“This study supports our broader goal to expand our low-emission aluminium production while exploring new business models and growth opportunities in fast-developing regions,” said Jérôme Pécresse, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto Aluminium. “India presents a strong case for this project given its economic momentum and potential for clean energy deployment.”
As part of the assessment, AMG M&M will partner with Greenko to examine renewable power solutions that offer reliable, continuous supply. At the same time, Rio Tinto will focus on identifying a commercially viable source of alumina. The review will also evaluate smelting technologies that align with both cost and sustainability goals.
Mahesh Kolli, Group President of AMG M&M and Greenko, commented: “In recent years, we’ve developed a variety of solutions that support decarbonization across sectors—from electricity and fuels to chemicals. Extending this to materials such as aluminium is a logical next step. This project could provide scalable access to low-carbon metals needed for greener supply chains in industries like automotive, construction, and packaging.”
AMG M&M was launched by Anil Chalamalasetty and Mahesh Kolli, co-founders of Greenko—India’s major clean energy firm—and AM Green, which is developing renewable energy-based chemical and fuel production. Greenko currently operates 10 GW of renewable power capacity and is building 100 GWh of energy storage infrastructure across India.
AM Green is advancing several low-carbon ammonia projects across the country, aiming for a combined capacity of 5 million tonnes per year by 2030. Its flagship facility under construction in Kakinada is expected to become one of the world’s largest green ammonia production sites compliant with international renewable fuel standards. The company is also working on sustainable alternatives for various industrial inputs such as green caustic soda, e-methanol, olefins, and biofuels to decarbonize difficult-to-transition sectors.
