Jamalco reconstruction process to commence from June 2022: Finance Minister

On 1^st February 2022, the Minister of Finance and the Public Service of Jamaica, Dr Nigel Clarke asserted to the ‘House of Representatives’ that the proceeding of reconstruction at the Government's part-owned bauxite/alumina company Jamalco is on course.

Dr Clarke, while countering to questions from Phillip Paulwell, the opposition spokesman on mining and energy said, “The recovery process will take place over three phases, starting in June this year.”

He said, “In terms of phase one, JAMALCO expects the recommencement of operations at up to 50% of capacity, using steam from a set of boilers now being installed.”

“It is expected that mining operations and associated jobs will begin to be restored in the weeks before the resumption of production.”

He also informed the House that by the end of September 2022 Jamalco anticipates being back at 100% production, marking phase two of the process. The cost of production should then be reduced in phase one, but won’t be possible at the most efficient levels due to Jamalco’s dependency in phase two will be on a temporary steam solution.

However, phase three involves the rebuilding of the powerhouse and Jamalco is considering multiple strategic options for achieving this. It is expected that the accomplishment of this reconstruction will be attained by 2024.

In August 2021, a fire broke out, which affected 50% of the powerhouse which supplies power, steam and compressed air towards functionalizing the refinery.