Rio Tinto, Quebec to Invest $375M in Pilot Smelter with Carbon-Free Elysis Technology for Aluminum Production

01 Jul, 2024

Rio Tinto, Quebec to Invest $375M in Pilot Smelter with Carbon-Free Elysis Technology for Aluminum Production

Rio Tinto and the Quebec government are collaborating on a pioneering project with a joint investment of $375 million to establish a pilot smelter using Elysis technology at Rio Tinto's Arvida facility in Quebec. This partnership involves Rio Tinto contributing $235 million and Investissement Quebec providing $140 million as equity partners.

The pilot smelter marks a crucial step towards scaling up Elysis technology, designed to eliminate direct greenhouse gas emissions from aluminum smelting processes. The demonstration plant will feature 10 smelting pots with a capacity to produce up to 2,500 tonnes of commercial-grade aluminum annually.

Strategically located adjacent to Rio Tinto's existing Arvida smelter, the new facility will leverage the current alumina supply and casting infrastructure. This integration underscores the project's efficiency and readiness to expand to meet future industry demands. The investment underscores Rio Tinto's commitment to sustainable practices and technological innovation, positioning the company as a leader in low-carbon aluminum production.

This initiative not only reflects Quebec's dedication to environmental responsibility but also emphasizes its role in advancing clean technology solutions in the global aluminum sector. As the project progresses, stakeholders anticipate significant advancements in carbon reduction and operational efficiency, paving the way for sustainable industrial practices and setting new benchmarks in the aluminum industry.