The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently presented Pittsburgh-based United States Steel Corp. with the Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence during an event in Harrisburg.
The DEP honored U. S. Steel for a project that converted two of its diesel locomotives to battery power.
“The successful conversion of U. S. Steel’s locomotives to battery power shows that public-private partnerships can be the catalyst for finding innovative solutions that drive environmental excellence,” DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley said. “Projects like this will pave the way toward a more sustainable future for Pennsylvania.”
U. S. Steel unveiled the first locomotive in October at the Mon Valley Works – Clairton Plant. Last month, a second locomotive arrived at the Mon Valley Works – Edgar Thomson facility.
They are used for carrying coke, iron ore, scrap metal, steel, and other production materials.
The switch is expected to reduce the amount of diesel fuel consumed by 40,000 gallons annually, reduce airborne particulate matter emissions at the facilities by .385 tons, and help the company reach its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The project was one of 22 selected that showcase innovations that promotes sustainability and have a positive impact on the environment and economy.