Investment will protect jobs, help Canada's aluminum sector remain competitive and advance the world's greenest aluminum with ELYSISTM low‑carbon technology
Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced a significant $100 million investment in the ELYSISTM technology deployment project. This investment supports Rio Tinto Alcan's $440 million project, involving the design and construction of a demonstration plant for the ELYSISTM aluminum electrolysis technology-positioning Canada at the forefront of the global transition to low-carbon, high-value aluminum manufacturing. Aluminum is a strategic sector for Canada's economy, underpinning key industries including defence, aerospace, automotive, energy and infrastructure. As the world's fourth-largest producer and a trusted supplier, Canada is uniquely positioned to lead in a quickly shifting global landscape.
With rising tariffs and continued trade uncertainties, the Government of Canada is taking decisive action to protect Canadian workers, reinforce domestic supply chains and build a stronger and more resilient economy.
This new investment will help Rio Tinto advance the development and future commercialization of the ELYSISTM emissions‑free aluminum smelting technology in Canada. This new facility marks an important step in validating the ELYSISTM technology at an industrial scale and will unlock new growth opportunities and future commercialization.
Thanks to the Government of Canada's investment, this major project is expected to maintain 5,000 full-time well-paying jobs in Quebec and across the country, while supporting 20 co-op student placements across Rio Tinto's operations in Canada. This investment is about protecting Canadian workers today, and at the same time, investing in the talent of tomorrow.
The ELYSISTM technology deployment project will advance Canada's aluminum industry, protect thousands of jobs and support export growth to meet the rising demand for sustainable materials. The global economy is rapidly evolving, and the Government of Canada is making strategic investments to build a stronger, more diversified economy-one that creates good jobs, drives innovation and secures long-term prosperity.
