What’s at stake: Job security, for Southland's biggest employer, as the deal confirms Rio Tinto's intention to retain the Tiwai Pt smelter for the long term. Until the deal was signed, the operation was due to close at the end of 2024.
Background: The future of the smelter has been in doubt since owner Rio Tinto signalled its intention to close the operation, along with the loss of 870 direct jobs, in late 2019. The deal, which would take effect from July 1, is subject to regulatory approval.
Main players: Rio Tinto, NZAS, Mercury, Meridian Energy, Contact Energy, Electricity Authority, Chris Blenkiron.
The New Zealand Aluminium Smelter (NZAS) has been granted a 20-year lifeline after signing a "package" of contracts including long-term fixed price contracts and a demand response agreement.
The deal, signed with major power generators Meridian, Contact and Mercury, follows several years of often
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What’s at stake: Job security, for Southland's biggest employer, as the deal confirms Rio Tinto's intention to retain the Tiwai Pt smelter for the long term. Until the deal was signed, the operation was due to close at the end of 2024.
Background: The future of the smelter has been in doubt since owner Rio Tinto signalled its intention to close the operation, along with the loss of 870 direct jobs, in late 2019. The deal, which would take effect from July 1, is subject to regulatory approval.
Main players: Rio Tinto, NZAS, Mercury, Meridian Energy, Contact Energy, Electricity Authority, Chris Blenkiron.
