Evraz North America, a Chicago-based engineered steel producer, has partnered with Lightsource BP and Xcel Energy to build the world’s largest solar-powered steel plant in Pueblo, Colorado. A 300-megawatt solar farm will power Evraz’s Rocky Mountain Steel mill facility, using more than 750,000 solar panels on 1,800 acres.
According to IEA, the steelmaking industry generates about 8% of the world’s CO2 emissions. The project provides EVRAZ North America with predictable electricity prices and allows the mill to stay in Pueblo and invest in its future. The project supports the broader Colorado Energy Plan, which will deliver 55% renewable energy to the grid by 2026 and reduce carbon emissions by 60%, as well as Xcel Energy’s bold vision to deliver 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.
The general contractor for the $500 million long rail mill is Fargo, North Dakota-based Wanzek Construction, according to the Pueblo Chieftain.
According to Lightsource BP, the developer and owner, the Bighorn solar project is one of the largest on-site solar facilities dedicated to a single customer in the country, in addition to powering the world’s greenest steel mill.
The Bighorn solar project is being developed with an investment of $285m raised by Lightsource bp and project investors. McCarthy’s Renewable Energy & Storage team was named by Lightsource bp as the engineer, procure, and construction contractor (EPC).
