According to a report by The Canadian Press, Canada’s main aluminum companies plan to spend $15 billion over the next decade to modernize their facilities in Quebec. In addition, they plan to push for greater use of the lightweight metal. The Canadian presidents of Rio Tinto Alcan, Alcoa and Alouette said that the investments are required to improve efficiency and add capacity to meet rising global demand. They are also necessary in order to improve Quebec’s competitive position against companies in China and the Middle East.            

For example, Rio Tinto Alcan has earmarked $1.2 billion for the first phase of a pilot plant using its AP60 technology in Quebec. It has also budgeted $228 million to upgrade the Shipshaw power station in Quebec. Alcoa plans to spend $2.2 billion to improve the efficiency of its Quebec facilities. The companies expect uses for aluminum will increase over the next three years as bus and subway car manufacturers and bridge builders incorporate more aluminum.