Scottish Lib Dem Leader Tavish Scott today joined local MP Charles Kennedy for a tour of the Alcan aluminium smelter in Fort William.

Tavish Scott MSP and Charles Kennedy MP at Alcan in Fort WilliamThe visitors heard about progress with a £45million investment programme in upgrading hydro electricity generators to maximise the use of locally generated clean power in the smelting process and increase production. The original generators have been in use since 1929.

Commenting after the visit, Tavish Scott, leader of the Liberal Democrats in Scotland said:

“Rio Tinto Alcan’s commitment to renewable energy is impressive, with hydro energy providing all of the smelter’s electricity. We need to see more industry embracing renewable energy.

"There has been a hydro-powered aluminium smelter in the region for over 100 years, providing a valuable boost to the local economy. Rio Tinto Alcan is an important local employer and Charles Kennedy and I were pleased to see around the plant today.

“It’s great to see Scottish manufacturing alive and kicking in Fort William.”

Charles Kennedy added:

“The investment by Rio Tinto Alcan at Fort William is a welcome vote of confidence in the future of the smelter.

“Clean, cheap hydro power and a first class workforce have served the aluminium industry in Lochaber well. With this substantial investment, I hope that relationship with our community will continue far into the future.”