The Clarendon plant has not produced alumina since the blaze over a month ago, resulting in greater economic loss. The company however has a plan to recoup from this devastation that’s expected to be beneficial to all stakeholders.
A fire broke out at the Jamalco plant in Clarendon on Sunday, August 22 this year, halting alumina production. After just over a month, Energy Minister Robert Montaque presented a report to the Parliament on Wednesday. The report revealed Jamalco’s costly losses
The company is covered by property and plant insurance that amounts to 250 million US dollars. Destroyed in the fire were the powerhouse, two turbine generators and its operating equipment, two control rooms, and an oil pump station. The company will not be earning money from alumina production for up to two years according to the Minister.
The plant created a 3-stage resumption model that the minister assures will make it more resilient and competitive in the global landscape. Stage one will see the resumption of alumina production at 50 percent capacity by June 2022. Stage two will reduce the plant’s reliance on the Jamaica Public Service for power. And stage three will be the complete repair and revamp of Jamalco’s powerhouse.
Reporter: Jhanielle Powell.