A $28.5 million contribution from the Strategic Response Fund
Saguenay, October 23, 2026 – Earlier today, Mélanie Joly, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, announced a $28.5 million contribution to support the modernization of Aluminerie Alouette through the Strategic Response Fund. This announcement supports the company’s efforts to optimize its operations amid ongoing uncertainty caused by trade and geopolitical tensions in various parts of the world.
The Sept-Îles aluminum smelter, which has been firmly rooted in the North Shore community for nearly 35 years, announced a $1.5 billion investment plan in 2025. Although it already produces aluminum with one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world, the ambitions of the consortium of five shareholders do not stop there. The major projects currently underway, with the support of the government, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25,000 tonnes of CO? equivalent per year while improving energy efficiency.
The funds provided, which are partially repayable, come at just the right time, as the Canadian aluminum industry navigates an increasingly uncertain market. “Given the unpredictable economic climate we’re navigating, the government’s support strengthens investor confidence and allows us to envision a sustainable future, despite the current circumstances,” said Claude Gosselin, President and CEO of Aluminerie Alouette. “We have repeatedly demonstrated our resilience and ability to adapt. By remaining attentive to every opportunity, we are accelerating our projects to ensure that we remain a recognized global leader,” he added.
More specifically, the organization is working on several fronts, including two projects totalling $135 million that are supported by the Strategic Response Fund. First, improvements will be made to the carbon anodes, which are essential to the alumina electrolysis process. Through various adjustments to the composition of these anodes, gains are anticipated in terms of productivity, environmental emissions and energy efficiency. To achieve this, numerous pieces of equipment must be adapted to produce and handle the blocks. In addition, another project focuses on the particle size of the bath covering material, a solid powder used to retain heat in the pots during the process. Here again, the long-term benefits are expected to be significant. These initiatives are scheduled for completion in 2027.
About the Strategic Response Fund
The Strategic Response Fund (SRF) helps Canadian industries innovate, adapt, and compete in a changing global economy. It supports large-scale, transformative projects that ensure economic resilience, strengthen supply chains, and protect quality jobs in key sectors such as steel, aluminum, automotive, forestry, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
