Facts about Kitimat Works Modernization Project
- Modernization of Kitimat Works is a US$2.5 billion project to expand Kitimat Works aluminum smelter with state-of-the-art AP technology to achieve a leading edge, highly efficient and world class operation in British Columbia.
- Modernization offers significant environmental, and health and safety improvements. Alcan will work with government, business and First Nation leaders to ensure that modernization is done responsibly and sustainably.
- Modernization will mean more aluminum production than ever before by increasing the output tonnage up to 400,000 tonnes annually.
- The introduction of the latest evolution of AP technology will make Kitimat Works one of the most modern smelters in the world, and among three of Rio Tinto Alcan’s largest smelters. (At roughly 400ktpy, Kitimat will be the same size as the Alma smelter.)
- By construction end, modernization will secure about 1,000 highly skilled, highly paid sustainable jobs for 35-40 years. Natural attrition, mainly through retirements, will ensure a smooth transition for the workforce.
- The modernized smelter will use more power for aluminum production than ever before (up to 100 per cent of all reliable energy). “Reliable is defined as available 24/7, 365 days a year, even during low water years)
- Rio Tinto Alcan has been and will continue to work diligently with the region, businesses, economic groups and First Nations to stimulate new job creation through economic development and diversification, as well as leveraging modernization to also create new economic opportunities.
- In the short term, economic activity generated by the construction phase of the project is expected to create significant employment opportunities.
- Rio Tinto Alcan is the largest employer in the manufacturing sector in B.C. employing roughly 1,500 people and contributing over $289 million annually to the province of BC.
