Century Aluminum, EGA Appoint Bechtel for Inola Smelter to Double US Output
Century Aluminum and Emirates Global Aluminium appointed Bechtel for preparatory engineering on a new primary aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, aiming for final investment decision and construction by end-2026. The plant will double U.S. primary aluminum output, use EGA EX reduction technology and create 1,000 permanent plus 4,000 construction jobs.
1. Preparatory Engineering Selection
Bechtel has been selected to conduct preparatory engineering work for the planned Inola, Oklahoma primary aluminum production plant, with the goal of finalizing investment plans and beginning construction by year-end 2026. The scope includes design optimization, value engineering and infrastructure planning to support industrial expansion.
2. Production Capacity Expansion
The project marks the first new U.S. primary aluminum smelter since 1980 and is designed to double current U.S. primary output. Partnership structure allocates 60% ownership to Emirates Global Aluminium and 40% to Century Aluminum, leveraging combined expertise to meet rising domestic aluminum demand.
3. Local Economic Impact
The Inola plant is projected to create approximately 1,000 permanent jobs at the facility and support around 4,000 jobs during the construction phase. Planning efforts include logistics design to minimize traffic disruption and coordination with local authorities to enhance regional economic growth.
4. Technology and Partnerships
The smelter will deploy EGA’s EX aluminum reduction technology, recognized for its efficiency and low emissions. Bechtel is evaluating modular construction and pre-assembly strategies, while environmental and social permitting is coordinated to ensure sustainable development and community engagement.