Saskatchewan alumina find by Canadian Energy Metals may be a major resource

Canadian Energy Metals reports a preliminary assessment indicating about 6.8 billion tonnes of alumina near Tisdale, and says more work including a demonstration plant is needed before deciding on the reported $6.3‑billion Project Thor.

Canadian Energy Metals says a preliminary economic assessment indicates about 6.8 billion tonnes of alumina near Tisdale, northeast of Saskatoon. The company refers to the proposal as Project Thor and has cited an estimated project figure of about $6.3 billion. Alumina is a powder used in making aluminum and has applications from vehicle parts to batteries and aerospace components. Company leaders and provincial officials say further study is required, including designing and engineering a demonstration plant, before a final feasibility decision is made. Key details: - Canadian Energy Metals reports an estimated 6.8 billion tonnes of alumina in the Tisdale area, based on a preliminary economic assessment. - The company calls the effort Project Thor and has mentioned a project estimate of roughly $6.3 billion. - Alumina is used to produce aluminum and has industrial uses in vehicles, batteries and aerospace components. - The company plans to design and engineer a demonstration plant in Tisdale to evaluate the resource and potential products before deciding on commercial development. - Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said the deposit could position the province as a stable supplier of a critical resource and compared its potential to potash and uranium. - Company representatives and the premier reported that processing this ore could be less energy-intensive and produce fewer wastes than traditional bauxite-based refining, as described in company statements. Summary: Officials and the company say the reported discovery could create new industrial opportunities for Tisdale and Saskatchewan and might affect Canada’s role in supplying a critical material. Reported plans include further studies and the design of a demonstration plant; a final feasibility decision is undetermined at this time.