Solar energy company 174 Power Global and steel producer Gerdau Long Steel North America have entered into a 20-year power purchase agreement to develop one of the largest behind-the-meter solar facilities in the nation.
The 80-MW Gerdau Solar project, located adjacent to the Gerdau Midlothian Steel Mill in Midlothian, Texas, will be composed of more than 231,000 solar panels, spanning more than 700 acres. The BTM system will provide power directly to the Midlothian steel mill, creating cost and energy consumption benefits.
“174 Power Global is pleased to enter into this partnership with Gerdau, one of the world’s most environmentally responsible steel producers, as we continue to develop our solar generation footprint and behind-the-meter projects in Texas,” said Henry Yun, 174 Power Global president. “We look forward to breaking ground on the construction of this important and innovative project and continuing to provide clean energy solutions to the state.”
The Gerdau Solar project plans to use Gerdau’s solar beam pilings, offset the emissions of more than 13,000 average Texas households, create more than 200 construction jobs and generate $19 million in tax revenue over the next 30 years.
“Gerdau has a culture of sustainability,” said Chia Yuan Wang, president of Gerdau Long Steel North America. “The products from our Midlothian facility are already made from 100% recycled scrap metal. Developing and utilizing green energy is an innovative way to further enhance our environmental contributions.”
Gerdau Midlothian General Manager Dean Peery added: “The Midlothian mill has been producing steel in the community since 1975, and we are grateful for the city’s ongoing support and partnership. Our new Gerdau Solar facility will provide environmental and economic benefits to Midlothian, and we are pleased to work alongside the 174 Power Global team.”
Construction on the Gerdau Solar facility is expected to commence by the end of 2020 and be completed at the end of 2021.
“The Gerdau Solar project will provide near-term stimulus, revenue for the city and schools, as well as long-lasting economic benefits. Midlothian is a great place to do business, and we are pleased that Gerdau continues to invest in our community,” said Midlothian Mayor Richard Reno.
News item from 174 Power Global
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