Sohar Aluminium attributed the achievement of the milestone to its focus on maximising operating efficiencies, continuous improvement and the dedication of its employees.
Sohar was formed in September 2004 to undertake a Greenfield smelter project in the Sultanate of Oman. Jointly owned by Oman Oil Company, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC - TAQA and Rio Tinto Alcan, it reached full capacity on 19 February 19, 2009. 30 months later it celebrated the 1Mt produced. In that time capacity was upgraded from 350kt/y to 375kt/y.
The company boasts a 1000MW power station and world's longest single potline
Sohar Aluminium also focuses on issues outside of its production. Omanisation, which currently stands at 70% of its workforce is a driving force.
The company’s target by 2015 is to be 85% Omanised. The development of its young employees is paramount and it has launched a training academy which will give every employee the opportunity for further learning.
About 56% of Sohar’s spend is in the domestic market which equates to US$50M for 2010 and a 0.6% contribution to Oman’s GDP.
Shareholders have committed 1.5% of their profits towards corporate social responsibility.
Sohar Aluminium is working together with ORPIC (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries) and Vale on the formation a foundation that will benefit the greater community.
Source: aluminiumtoday.com
