SMELTER: Rio Tinto Alcan plans $36 million program at Laterrire

QUEBEC - Rio Tinto Alcan of Montreal plans to invest $36 million at its Laterrière smelter in Saguenay. The two-year project will bring the electrolytic cell control system into the digital age.

"This investment will also allow the plant to maintain its equipment at the leading edge of technology, reduce operational costs, and conserve its enviable position as a low-cost aluminum producer," said VP primary metal Etienne Jacques in a news release.

The Laterrière project will not only modernize the process control system, but it will also enhance plant energy efficiency, and support greenhouse gas emission reduction efforts. Moreover, it will eventually lead to an increase in production.

The Laterrière works received a North American Bravo! Award in 2009 for significantly decreasing its natural gas consumption. More information is available at www.RioTintoAlcan.com.