Resolute Forest Products Inc. officially inaugurated on May 14 a major power island producing green energy at its pulp and paper operation in Thunder Bay, Ont. The power island includes a refurbished and upgraded woodwaste boiler and a new…
Resolute Forest Products Inc. officially inaugurated on May 14 a major power island producing green energy at its pulp and paper operation in Thunder Bay, Ont. The power island includes a refurbished and upgraded woodwaste boiler and a new 65-megawatt condensing turbine. Approved by Resolute in early 2011, the $65 million project took just over 21 months to complete.
“The power island is a strategic addition to Resolute’s Thunder Bay facility,” stated Richard Garneau, president and CEO. “It will reduce the mill’s energy costs as well as maximize our local woodlands, sawmill, pulp and paper, and energy operations by fully utilizing forest-based biomass to produce green electricity.”
The green power produced will be sold to the Ontario grid under a power purchase agreement between Resolute and the Ontario Power Authority.
To mark the inauguration, a ceremonial “throwing of the switch” was held May 14 involving key company and government representatives.
“This project is consistent with Resolute’s focus on optimizing our network to reduce costs as well as investing in projects that improve our competitive position and are aligned with a sustainable future,” added Garneau.
“This is certainly an important investment that will ensure Resolute Forest Products remains a strong global force in the pulp and paper industry while continuing to contribute to the Thunder Bay economy. This new power island will significantly reduce their impact on the environment, and I’m thrilled that our government was able to help support this project,” stated Michael Gravelle, Ontario Minister of Northern Development and Mines and MPP, Thunder Bay-Superior North.
Resolute Forest Products manufactures a diverse range of products, including newsprint, commercial printing papers, market pulp and wood products. The Company owns or operates more than 40 pulp and paper mills, wood products facilities and power generation assets.
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