Augments Pre-existing Suite of European Low-carbon Metals and Raw Materials Assessments

NEW YORK, Jan. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, the leading independent provider of information, analysis, data and benchmark prices for the commodities, energy and energy transition markets, has launched a new daily low-carbon primary aluminum price assessment for the US market, effective Jan. 2, 2024.

The new Platts US Low-Carbon Aluminum Premium (US-LCAP) will reflect any differential achieved for the spot trade of primary aluminum with total certified emissions of 4-metric-ton-equivalent (mte) or less of CO2 per metric ton of aluminum. The assessment covers direct and indirect emissions associated with aluminum smelting, typically considered by market participants as Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

Anna Crowley, global head of metals pricing, said: "We welcome this opportunity to respond to market requests for new price references in US aluminum and low-carbon metals, further expanding our benchmark offering to help market participants manage risks and opportunities associated with growing focus on carbon-reduction strategies across the global metals markets." 

This launch follows consultation with the marketplace augments a pre-existing suite of Platts low-carbon aluminum and zero-carbon aluminum price assessments launched in March 2021 to complement the pre-existing Platts European price offerings for high-grade primary aluminum (P1020). Interest and trade in low-carbon primary aluminum and other metals has been on the rise, as both market participants and regulatory agencies sharpen their focus on decarbonization initiatives.  

"The US low-carbon aluminum market has been maturing rapidly, but lacking standardization and transparency, according to feedback from market participants. Platts is eager to help bring both transparency and clarity to this market segment," said Christopher Davis, Americas regional pricing director for metals, S&P Global Commodity Insights.

Per the Platts low-carbon aluminum methodology, emissions must be certified by an internationally accepted, independent organization. Market participants are expected to supply proof of such certification upon request. Platts continues to invite feedback regarding certifiers currently working with aluminum producers and the industry, as well as feedback on guidelines for a transparent publication process.

Trade in aluminum products using offsets to reduce overall emissions profiles, such as credits sourced from voluntary carbon markets, are not considered for inclusion in this assessment.

Media Contacts: 
Americas: Kathleen Tanzy + 1 917-331-4607, kathleen.tanzy@spglobal.com
EMEA: Paul Sandell + 44 (0)7816 180039, paul.sandell@spglobal.com  
Asia: Melissa Tan + 65-6597-6241, melissa.tan@spglobal.com   

About S&P Global Commodity Insights
At S&P Global Commodity Insights, our complete view of global energy and commodity markets enables our customers to make decisions with conviction and create long-term, sustainable value.  

We're a trusted connector that brings together thought leaders, market participants, governments, and regulators and we create solutions that lead to progress. Vital to navigating commodity markets, our coverage includes oil and gas, power, chemicals, metals, agriculture, shipping and energy transition. Platts^® products and services, including leading benchmark price assessments in the physical commodity markets, are offered through S&P Global Commodity Insights. S&P Global Commodity Insights maintains clear structural and operational separation between its price assessment activities and the other activities carried out by S&P Global Commodity Insights and the other business divisions of S&P Global.   

S&P Global Commodity Insights is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). S&P Global is the world's foremost provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help many of the world's leading organizations navigate the economic landscape so they can plan for tomorrow, today. For more information visit https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights. 

SOURCE S&P Global Commodity Insights