FIS cited Mr A Volynets director general on strategy and corporate development of Rusal's as saying that United Company Russian Aluminum suspended the Komi Aluminum project for two years because it failed to find access to an energy source.

As reported earlier, Komi Aluminum is included in the list of Rusal's priority projects as it strengthens the resource base of the company and is a key element for the implementation of projects on opening of new aluminum capacities in Russia.

The complex in Komi was projected to be put into operation in 2009. Its startup would allow the company to increase alumina production in Russia by more than 40%.