Rio Tinto starts commissioning low-carbon aluminium expansion in Quebec

2026-06-01

Jun. 1, 2026 - Rio Tinto has begun commissioning its US$1.5 billion AP60 aluminium smelter expansion at the Arvida complex in Quebec, Canada, marking a major step forward in low-carbon aluminium production.

The project is scheduled to be fully operational by the end of 2026. Once completed, it will add approximately 160,000 tonnes of annual primary aluminium capacity, increasing total AP60 production capacity to around 220,000 tonnes per year.

Powered by Quebec’s hydroelectricity, AP60 is one of the most advanced commercial aluminium smelting technologies. The process generates only about one-sixth of the greenhouse gas emissions of the global industry average and roughly half the emissions of the older technology currently used at the site.

Rio Tinto expects the expansion to reduce carbon emissions by around 290,000 tonnes annually while lowering fine particulate emissions by up to 90%. Together with a planned aluminium recycling centre, the project will offset production losses from the closure of older potlines at Arvida.

The expansion will create about 100 permanent jobs and further strengthen North America’s supply of low-carbon aluminium for industries including transportation, construction, electrical infrastructure, and consumer goods.

Rio Tinto said the project represents the first major primary aluminium development in the Western world in more than a decade and reinforces Quebec’s position as a leading hub for sustainable aluminium production.