Rio Tinto reaches Bell Bay Aluminium deal
Rio Tinto has reached agreement with the Tasmanian and Australian Governments to continue the operation of the Bell Bay Aluminium smelter until 2031.
Under the arrangements, Hydro Tasmania will continue to supply electricity to the smelter in northern Tasmania until 31 December 2031.
The Australian and Tasmanian Governments will provide additional support to continue operations as Tasmania’s energy system evolves.
Rio Tinto Aluminium & Lithium Chief Executive Jérôme Pécresse said: “These agreements will provide Bell Bay Aluminium with an operating pathway through to 2031, and increased certainty for our people, suppliers and the northern Tasmanian community.
“Bell Bay Aluminium has been part of Tasmania's heritage for 71 years, and we are proud of the jobs, exports and economic value it creates for the State.
“With these agreements in place, we can continue to safely deliver high-quality aluminium products for our customers in Australia and around the world."
Australian Aluminium Council CEO Marghanita Johnson welcomed the news and said: “Bell Bay Aluminium supports more than 550 direct skilled jobs and contributes over $250 million annually to the Tasmanian economy, making it a critical driver of the state's prosperity."
The facility commenced operations in 1955 and was the first aluminium smelter in the Southern Hemisphere.
