Mining giant Rio Tinto has announced an investment of C$1.7bn ($1.2bn) to upgrade the Isle-Maligne hydroelectric power plant located in Alma, Quebec, Canada.
Originally commissioned in 1926, this modernisation effort marks Rio Tinto’s largest investment in hydroelectric assets since the 1950s.
The upgrade of the Isle-Maligne facility is crucial for ensuring the continued production of low-carbon aluminium in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean area. This initiative is expected to bolster the region’s employment landscape by supporting jobs related to aluminium production. The modernisation aims to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and the reliability of renewable energy supply to various company facilities, including smelters and casting houses, thereby safeguarding both the company’s assets and community interests.
Scheduled for completion in 2032, the project will involve a workforce peaking at over 300 individuals. Key components of the modernisation include replacing eight turbine-alternator groups, refurbishing water intake systems and hydraulic passages, and constructing a new extension and mechanical workshop on the northern side of the power station.
Additionally, the project will involve updating electrical and mechanical equipment and modifying a spillway to ensure its reliability during winter months.
Rio Tinto Aluminium Atlantic Operations managing director Sébastien Ross said: “The Isle-Maligne hydroelectric power plant has been a strategic asset for Rio Tinto for 100 years, drawing on the expertise and dedication of multiple generations of employees and business partners. This major investment to modernise our facilities will ensure the long-term future and competitivity of our low carbon aluminium production in Quebec for decades to come for our Canadian and American customers.’’
This investment complements earlier announced projects valued at a total of $183m, which focus on the refurbishment of butterfly valves and enhancements to two other turbine-alternator groups at the Isle-Maligne plant.
Rio Tinto stands as one of Canada’s largest private hydroelectric power producers, with seven facilities across Quebec and British Columbia. An additional power station in Sept-Îles, Quebec, supplies hydroelectric power to Rio Tinto IOC’s port operations.
Recently, Rio Tinto signed joint venture (JV) agreements with Sumitomo Metal Mining (SMM) to develop the Winu copper-gold project in Western Australia’s Great Sandy Desert.
