Alcoa CEO William Oplinger: Growth in data centers is really positive for aluminum
Alcoa CEO William Oplinger said the company sold its first closed industrial site in Massena, New York, to a midsize developer for potential data center redevelopment. He said the project could generate jobs and tax revenue, although some Massena residents have raised concerns about data center development.
Alcoa CEO William Oplinger told CNBC that the company sold its first closed site for data center redevelopment in Massena, New York. The site, which has been closed for more than a decade, is being transferred to a midsize developer and could generate up to $320 million depending on the eventual size of the data center. The transaction is part of Alcoa's plan to monetize $500 million to $1 billion in closed assets before 2030.
Oplinger said Alcoa is evaluating 10 sites worldwide for similar redevelopment opportunities and that data center construction is increasing demand for aluminum. He said the company would consider community concerns at each location. CNBC reported that some Massena residents have questioned the development, while Oplinger maintained that the project could bring jobs and tax revenue to the community.