US-based Alcan Inc. recently discussed its expansion of their smelter in the District of Kitimat in British Columbia with Kitimat officials. The company is looking to convert to modern technology at the plant. This will increase the annual output to between 350, 000 and 400, 000 tons per year from the current 280, 000 tons. Alcan expects that the expansion will prolong the smelters lifespan by an extra 35 years. It is also expected to bring more construction related jobs over a period of 4 to 6 years. However, the mayor of Kitimat doubted this and believes that it is just for Alcan's own huge profits because surplus electricity can be sold to spot markets with this expansion. At the movement, both sides see the discussion as a good beginning. (Jan. 20)