The Isle-Maligne hydroelectric power plant, commissioned in 1926, is set for a comprehensive upgrade.
The project aims to ensure the plant’s longevity, enhance renewable energy supply for Rio Tinto’s smelters, and sustain employment in the region. It will improve efficiency, safety, and reliability while prioritizing the well-being of workers and the local community.
Set to continue until 2032, the modernization involves replacing eight turbine-alternator groups, refurbishing water intake and hydraulic systems, building new facilities, and upgrading electrical and mechanical equipment. A spillway modification will also enable reliable winter operation. At its peak, the project will employ over 300 personnel on-site.
Sébastien Ross, Rio Tinto Aluminium’s managing director for Atlantic operations, stated: “The Isle-Maligne hydroelectric power plant has been a strategic asset for Rio Tinto for 100 years, drawing on the expertise and dedication of multiple generations of employees and business partners. This major investment to modernize our facilities will ensure the long-term future and competitiveness of our low-carbon aluminium production in Quebec for decades to come for our Canadian and American customers.”
This investment builds on Rio Tinto’s prior $183 million commitment to refurbish butterfly valves and update two turbine-alternator groups at Isle-Maligne. As a leading private hydroelectricity producer in Canada, Rio Tinto operates seven hydroelectric facilities in Quebec and British Columbia, enabling the production of some of the world’s lowest-carbon aluminum. An additional power station in Sept-Îles, Quebec, supports its port operations.
In March 2025, Rio Tinto partnered with Edify Energy to integrate solar power and battery storage into its Gladstone aluminum operations in Queensland, Australia. Under 20-year agreements, Rio Tinto will procure 90% of the electricity and storage from Edify’s Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap solar stations, advancing its commitment to sustainable energy for domestic consumption.
This modernization strengthens Rio Tinto’s role in providing low-carbon energy and aluminum, supporting regional economies and global sustainability goals.
