Qatar Petroleum and the Norwegian company Hydro Aluminium have been preparing for a major new aluminium project in Qatar since late 2004. The project will create approximately 5,500 jobs for the three-year construction. When in operation, Qatalum will provide 1,000 jobs in the local community of Mesaieed.
The Qatalum plant will help supply the global aluminium demand which is expected to double in the next 15 years, to 90 million tonnes per year. This growth is driven by the strong economic development in China and most Asian countries. The automotive industry is increasing its importance as the largest user of aluminium and forecasts show that the aluminium penetration in cars will continue to increase.
"Qatalum, will be built using the world's most economical and environmental friendly production technology”, explains Truls Gautesen, Head of Qatalum. The project team is finalizing the mega–project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prior to submission later in the month to QP’s Messaieed Industrial Authority and the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Resources. The EIA evaluates all aspects of the project on the environment, including air, aquatic, soils, waste management as well as understanding social and economic factors.
Of the investments, approximately USD 600 million worth of expenditures on construction materials and services are expected to come from Qatar which will be the equivalent of 6,000 jobs in addition to the on-site construction workforce.
Once State approvals have been secured, construction will start in 2007 and will include the construction of an electrical power plant, aluminium smelter facilities and port facilities for both import and export requirements. Start of Phase 1 operations will be in late 2009 with an initial aluminium production of approximately 600,000 tonnes. Additional capacity will be added in Phase 2 & 3 expansions which will increase the total aluminium production in excess of 1.2 million/year.
“Qatalum is committed and has a strong sense of responsibility and transparency on Environment, Health and Safety for our employees, customers and community where we operate” said Gautesen. “This philosophy will also guide us in the way we will design, construct and operate the facilities. As part of this initiative we will be shortly announcing our Qatalum website to allow ease of access by the general public in learning more about the project, to submit questions and enquiries and for contractors or individuals to obtain information on upcoming tenders or employment opportunities.”
© 2006 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
