Alma dam to undergo substantial renovation at a cost of $1.7 billion, as announced by Rio Tinto.
Rio Tinto's Massive $1.7 Billion Investment Transforms Century-Old Alma Hydroelectric Plant
In a bold move, Rio Tinto announced a massive $1.7 billion investment to modernize the Isle-Maligne hydroelectric plant located in Alma at the mouth of Lake Saint-Jean. This damn, originally commission in 1926, has been supplying electricity to the region's aluminum smelters, notably Arvida. The plant's historical importance is recognized by the Quebec government within the Repertoire du patrimoine culturel du Quebe.
This substantial investment in upgrading a near-century-old plant is, in essence, a response to the tit-for-tat disputes initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Quebec Premier Francois Legault, who attended the official announcement in Alma.
"Trump says, 'I'm gonna build my own aluminum plants.' With what energy, Trump? You don't have the energy to open aluminum plants. [...] That's not possible, what he's saying. He needs us!" Legault exclaimed.
The local Rio Tinto boss confirmed the company's intention to stay in the region for "another century."
"We have access to renewable energy that allows us to stand out from our competitors and constitutes a clear advantage that we want to continue to benefit from with an investment of this magnitude," said Sebastien Ross, executive director of Atlantic operations for Rio Tinto Aluminium. "We are investing in the future competitiveness of Quebec aluminum for our Canadian and American clients."
A Giant Leap
This is the biggest investment Rio Tinto has made in its hydroelectric assets since the 1950s[1]. Around eight turbine-generator groups will be replaced, explained Stephane Larouche, general director of Energy for Rio Tinto Aluminium[1].
"On the civil side, we're replacing the floor structure, the roof structure, the upstream and downstream grooves. It's a huge endeavor!" stated Larouche.
Rio Tinto also plans a complete rehabilitation of the water intakes, as well as the installation of a new water evacuator functional during winter months[1].
This ambitious project promises to be complex, as the renovation will take place while the dam remains in operation[1]. Up to 300 people will work on the site at the project's peak, while Rio Tinto employs approximately 4,300 people in the area[1]. The project is expected to continue until 2032.
This article benefited from the support of Local Journalism Initiative, funded by the Government of Canada.
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A New Era for Aluminum Production
The modernization will enable Rio Tinto to maintain a consistent and efficient supply of renewable electricity essential for aluminum smelting, casting houses, and related facilities in the region[1][2]. By ensuring a stable and modern energy infrastructure, the upgrade safeguards long-term operations and regional jobs, contributing to the competitiveness and sustainability of aluminum production in the area for decades to come[1][2].
Rio Tinto's continued investment in hydroelectric assets demonstrates a commitment to low-carbon aluminum, positioning the company to meet customer demand for greener products in both Canadian and American markets[2][4].
Sources: [1] Rio Tinto [2] Canadian Press [3] Journal de Québec [4] The Globe and Mail
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"Rio Tinto's massive investment in renewable energy at the Isle-Maligne hydroelectric plant in Alma will help sustain their competitive edge in the industry, as stated by Sebastien Ross, executive director of Atlantic operations for Rio Tinto Aluminium.”
"The modernization of the plant, which includes replacing eight turbine-generator groups and improving the water infrastructure, is anticipated to ensure a continuous and efficient supply of electricity essential for aluminum smelting and related facilities, as outlined in the Rio Tinto's announcements and reports."
