Rio Tinto commissions AP60 smelter expansion

Rio Tinto (corporation) has successfully started commissioning its US$1.5 billion AP60 smelter expansion at Complexe Arvida in Canada — Quebec, Canada. This project, which began in March and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, will increase the plant's primary aluminium production capacity by approximately 160,000 metric tonnes annually. The AP60 technology is highly efficient and low-carbon, generating significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to the industry average. The expansion will create around 100 permanent jobs and generated over $1 billion in economic benefits for Canada — Quebec. This initiative also supports the development of carbon-free aluminium electrolysis technology by ELYSIUM, a partnership involving Rio Tinto (corporation) and the governments of Canada and Canada — Quebec. Jérôme Pécresse, Mélanie Joly, and Christine Fréchette all highlighted the strategic importance of this project for the aluminium industry and regional economy.