New Zealand's Tiwai Point Smelter at Full Capacity, Boosted by Strong Aluminum Prices
[SMM Aluminum Express News] New Zealand’s Tiwai Point aluminum smelter is operating at full production as stronger aluminum prices support export earnings, with the country’s aluminum exports reaching around NZ$2.2 billion. The Rio Tinto-owned New Zealand Aluminium Smelter (NZAS) produces more than 335,000 tonnes/year, around 90% of which is exported, and is one of the world’s lower-carbon primary aluminum operations due to its predominantly renewable hydropower supply. Further upside to Tiwai production could come from restarting the currently idle Line 4 potline. Rio Tinto and Contact Energy signed a letter of intent in May for a new power agreement that could support a 2030 restart, adding approximately 30,000 tonnes/year of primary aluminum production and an estimated NZ$100 million/year in additional exports. Further upside to Tiwai production could come from restarting the currently idle Line 4 potline. Rio Tinto and Contact Energy signed a letter of intent in May for a new power agreement that could support a 2030 restart, adding approximately 30,000 tonnes/year of primary aluminum production and an estimated NZ$100 million/year in additional exports.