cross-posted from: https://mander.xyz/post/41967876
Russia’s largest silicon plant will suspend operations from Jan. 1, 2026, its owner announced Monday.
Metals group Rusal said its decision to shutter the Kremniy plant in the Irkutsk region was prompted by a lack of demand, with imported silicon now significantly cheaper than domestic output and foreign production continuing to rise.
It added that Russian silicon is also struggling to find buyers on global markets.
Rusal said it has notified local authorities of the planned shutdown and expects support in mitigating the “social consequences.”
Its other silicon facility, the Silicon Ural plant, will keep operating at reduced capacity.
Rusal earlier said it would cut its 2025 silicon production to 35,000 tons due to competition from China, down 35% from its 2024 output of 53,400 tons.
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