Evergreen Aluminum Co. has been a silent presence in Vancouver since June 2000, reflecting less-than-shining conditions in an industry dented by high electricity prices and a crinkled economy.

The question is, will the local smelter reopen, putting hundreds of people to work?

Nearly three years after the plant, formerly Vanalco, went into bankruptcy and was subsequently sold, it remains closed. Industry observers are doubtful that anything will change that, given the weight of forces working against a restart. Some work is under way to maintain its state of readiness, but the plant subsists with the sparest staffing.

All inquiries about the defunct business are referred to Baar, Switzerland, headquarters for Glencore International, which bought Vanalco last year.

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