Rio Tinto confirms that it will build a total of 96 AP60 technology tanks in Saguenay. It is a long-awaited project in the region as the closure of its pre-fired vats at Arvida scheduled for 2025 raised concerns about jobs.
The company made the announcement accompanied by the Premier of Quebec, François Legault, the Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, Pierre Fitzgibbon, the Minister of Innovation, Science and ‘Industry of Canada, François-Philippe Champagne and union representatives.
This is a $1.4 billion investment at the Jonquière Complex. The project would contribute to the annual production of approximately 160,000 metric tons of primary aluminum in Quebec.
Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm said at a press conference that this was the company’s largest investment in Quebec, but also in the West, for a decade.
The tanks will use AP60 technology. The company says they will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% compared to the old tanks at the Arvida factory.
Quebec will grant $150 million to support the project. The agreement between the company and the Legault government also provides more details on the company’s electricity rates. It will be similar to rate L for new tanks.
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