4 to 6 m high was built around the entire site to abate noise. Its 432 reduction cells, or pots, use Pechiney prebaked anodes with dry scrubbers. Off-site, improvements are being made at Alcan hydroelectric plants scattered over 140 km. Additions to the 161-kv transmission line powering the plant and to roads and railroads also are included. Site clearing started in March 1998.
Final completion is scheduled for the spring.
But Alcan's dominant position in the community was no guarantee of success for the Alma Smelter. Guided by principles of transparency, simplicity and flexibility, the company augmented the standard market and engineering studies, financial analysis, environmental reviews and union negotiations with public consultations. Company-sponsored public meetings were well attended. Letters also are mailed to the plant's 620 immediate neighbors to inform them of developments that might affect them. The nearest house sits a half-kilometer away.