The Tasmanian government is seeking federal intervention for one of the state's major industrials after negotiations for a new power deal stalled, jeopardising its future.

Rio Tinto-owned Bell Bay Aluminium (BBA) has been in discussions with Hydro Tasmania for a new power deal in recent months as its current 10-year agreement expires on December 31.

The plant near George Town in northern Tasmania employs more than 500 people.

The company told staff the fact no agreement had been reached in the past 18 months was a "significant risk" given the looming deadline.

Tasmanian energy minister Nick Duigan said there was a "gap" between what Hydro Tasmania could offer and a price that made BBA commercially viable, and called on the federal government for support.

A spokesperson for Tim Ayres,

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