Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada-based Algoma Steel Group Inc. says its electricity providers have received authorization to construct a new 230 kilovolt (kV) transmission line and related transformation components to serve its under construction electric arc furnace (EAF) mill in Sault Ste. Marie.
According to Algoma, power companies PUC Transmission LP and Hydro One Sault Ste. Marie LP applied for and received the approval “pursuant to the Ontario Energy Board Act.”
“The combined local transmission project improves the city’s access to Hydro One’s planned regional grid infrastructure upgrade as previously prioritized by the province of Ontario,” says the steelmaker.
“This milestone marks a significant advancement in enhancing Sault Ste. Marie’s power infrastructure, which is vital for supporting sustainable economic growth and our transformation to electric arc steelmaking—a key part of our commitment to environmental sustainability,” says Michael Garcia, president and CEO of Algoma Steel.
Algoma has been involved in a multiyear project this decade to convert its hot steelmaking operations from blast furnace/basic oxygen furnace technology to EAF production. That conversion will allow the company to make higher recycled-content steel.
According to Algoma, the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) confirmed the transmission project consists of network facilities and affirmed that no capital contribution from Algoma Steel is required. Additionally, the OEB determined the transmission rate impacts anticipated from the projects are “reasonable,” says the steelmaker.
“This achievement was driven by the combined efforts of PUC Transmission and Hydro One in their applications, as well as Batchewana First Nation and other supporting interveners, and underscores the strong commitment by the province of Ontario to enable investment in critical infrastructure that underpins the economic growth of our city and region,” adds Algoma Steel.
Says Garcia, “The collaboration between these organizations highlights dedication to ensuring that Sault Ste. Marie has reliable power needed to support both industrial advancement and community prosperity.”
Concludes the CEO, “Algoma Steel is proud to contribute to the sustainable development of Sault Ste. Marie and to support the future of green steel production in Ontario. We remain committed to delivering innovative and responsible steel solutions that benefit both the community and the environment.”
Courtesy : recyclingtoday.com
