Larsen Applauds Deal to Save Whatcom County Jobs
For Immediate Release
Contact: Amanda Mahnke
(202) 225-2605
Draft power contract would keep Intalco aluminum plant operating
October 30, 2009
Washington, D.C. — Today U.S. Representative Rick Larsen applauded the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) for reaching an agreement on a draft power contract with Alcoa to preserve over 500 good-paying jobs at the Intalco aluminum smelter in Ferndale, Washington.
“Today’s announcement is a huge win for Intalco employees, their families, and our community. A long-term power contract will keep over 500 family-wage jobs at the plant and support hundreds of other local jobs related to the aluminum industry,” said Larsen. “This is a great step forward for Whatcom County during these difficult economic times.”
Under the terms of the agreement announced today, BPA will provide Intalco with electricity to operate 2 potlines for the next nineteen months, with an option to extend the contract for an additional five years at that time. BPA will accept public comments on the draft contract for the next two weeks.
“I want to thank BPA Administrator Steve Wright and his staff for their work to develop a contract that works for BPA, Alcoa and our region’s ratepayers,” continued Larsen. “I encourage BPA and Alcoa to continue working to finalize this contract quickly to provide stability and security for employees at the Intalco plant.”
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