 |
Qatalum gets the go-ahead
(July 19, 2007) Qatar Petroleum and Norsk (July 19, 2007) Qatar Petroleum and Norsk Hydro ASA, the joint owners of Qatalum, have given the final approval for construction of the primary aluminium plant to begin this fall. Located in Mesaieed, Qatar, the plant will begin production in late 2009 and reach its initial full 585,000-ton capacity in 2010. Qatar Petroleum and Hydro each hold 50 percent of Qatalum.
GREEN LIGHT: The joint owners of Qatalum, Qatar Petroleum and Norsk Hydro ASA, have given the final go-ahead for construction to begin. |
| |
Growing market for aluminium
The global primary aluminium market is growing at a rate of 4 to 5 percent annually, due Growing market for aluminium
The global primary aluminium market is growing at a rate of 4 to 5 percent annually, due to aluminium’s valuable properties in use, as well as its recyclability. The location of Qatalum is strategically important, allowing efficient supply to customers in Asia and Europe as well as the United States.
Providing employment
When in operation, Qatalum will provide more than 1,000 permanent jobs in the local community of Mesaieed, south of the capital Doha, and will be part of Qatar’s expanding economic diversification. Qatalum will boost the markets for suppliers and subcontractors locally and in the Gulf region. The project will create approximately 5,500 jobs for the three-year construction period.
High environmental standards
The project is designed to meet the highest environmental standards. Qatalum’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment was approved by Qatar’s Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves (SCNER) in November 2006. Qatar has ratified relevant international environmental conventions including the United Nations’ Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. From the first day of construction, there will be a strong focus on safety and environmental protection.
|
