Rio Tinto Begins $1.5B Quebec AP60 Smelter Expansion Adding 160,000 Tonnes
RIO•Rio Tinto has begun commissioning its $1.5 billion AP60 smelter expansion in Quebec, adding 96 pots to boost aluminum capacity by 160,000 tonnes by end-2026. Powered by hydropower, it cuts greenhouse gas emissions to one-sixth of industry average, reduces particulates by up to 90%, and will support about 100 jobs.
1. Commissioning and Timeline
Commissioning of the AP60 smelter expansion began in March, with all 96 new pots expected to be operational by the end of 2026. This staged startup marks a critical milestone toward full deployment of the low-carbon aluminum technology at the Complexe Arvida facility.
2. Capacity Increase and Technology
The $1.5 billion project will add approximately 160,000 metric tonnes of primary aluminum production capacity, increasing total output using AP60 technology to around 220,000 tonnes per year. AP60 is one of the most energy-efficient commercial smelting technologies available, powered entirely by regional hydropower.
3. Emissions Reductions and Job Impact
Once fully commissioned, the expansion will slash greenhouse gas emissions to one-sixth of the industry average and cut particulate emissions by up to 90%. The project generated over 1,500 construction jobs and is expected to sustain about 100 permanent positions in the region.
