- Norsk Hydro confirmed a controlled shutdown phase at the Qatalum aluminium plant due to reduced gas supply.
- The facility will continue operating at roughly 60% capacity while restart timing remains uncertain.
The Norsk Hydro aluminum production shutdown at the Qatalum facility in Qatar marks a temporary operational adjustment triggered by ongoing reductions in natural gas supply. The joint venture plant, operated by Norsk Hydro ASA and Qatar Aluminum Manufacturing Company Q.P.S.C. (QAMCO), has shifted into a controlled production reduction strategy designed to stabilize operations while maintaining partial output and preparing for a possible future restart once supply conditions improve.
Qatalum Operations Reduced to 60% Capacity
Following confirmation from its gas supplier regarding continued limited supply availability, Qatalum will maintain aluminium production at approximately 60% of its total capacity. The controlled shutdown process halts any further curtailment measures while allowing the plant to sustain stable operations at this reduced level. This approach is intended to preserve operational integrity and technical readiness, which can simplify and accelerate a potential restart when full gas supply conditions are restored.
Joint Venture Structure and Production Capacity
Qatalum operates as a 50:50 joint venture between Hydro and Qatar Aluminum Manufacturing Company Q.P.S.C. The facility has a primary aluminium production capacity of about 648,000 metric tonnes annually, supported by a casthouse capable of producing up to 687,000 metric tonnes. While production currently remains constrained due to energy supply limitations, maintaining partial operations improves the prospects for a smoother return to full production once supply stability is achieved.
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