Steel Going Green

The steelmaking process requires a lot of energy, and everyone knows it. That’s why many steel companies are working hard to minimize their environmental impact. The following are just two recent examples of steel going green.

The world’s first steel mill powered (mostly) by the sun

The EVRAZ Rocky Mountain Steel mill in Pueblo, Colorado, will soon be home to one of the state’s largest solar facilities, and America’s largest on-site solar facility dedicated to a single customer. Lightsource BP plans to begin construction in the third quarter of 2020 and to bring the facility online by the end of 2021. The project will create about 300 jobs, contribute $22 million in tax revenue, and provide EVRAZ with predictable energy pricing — allowing the mill to make substantial investments in its future in an environmentally responsible way. Read more about this exciting development.

America’s first LEED certified steel producer

In March of 2017, Big River Steel earned its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for its mill, employee services building and warehouse. Energy-efficient equipment, a roof system designed to reduce heat loss, and a wastewater treatment facility all help make Big River Steel’s operations environmentally responsible. Read more about the company’s environmental policy.

If you work in the steel industry or buy steel products, it’s important to understand how American manufacturers are minimizing steel’s environmental impact. We’re all trying to do our part!