The project will be launched in partnership with Renewable Energy Management of Baltimore (REM), who will construct and operate a renewable energy facility that will produce renewable liquid fuel (RLF), a biodegradable, naturally derived oil-based fuel generated through an environmentally beneficial recycling process.

“Sparrows Point is proud to partner with REM, especially to promote environmentally sensitive energy sources in the region,” noted Dave Howard, Vice President and General Manager at Severstal Sparrows Point. “This partnership is an example of our commitment to support the growth of sustainable manufacturing and is consistent with our goal to continuously improve the environmental stewardship of our facilities.”

The use of RLF versus petroleum fuel allows the generation of smog-producing particulate matter to be cut almost in half. When compared to ethanol, RLF requires less energy during production, provides greater energy output, and lowers carbon dioxide emissions by an additional 25%. Ultimately, its use will support environmentally sustainable operations at Sparrows Point.

“At Sparrows Point, we are evaluating the potential for using RLF as cleaner fuel (biodiesel) in our mobile equipment as well as for on-site power generation,” continued Howard.

“Maryland is a national leader in our ability to harness renewable energy, and our ambition moving forward to expand those abilities,” said Governor O'Malley. “This initiative will put more clean energy on the grid as private companies like Severstal recognize not only the environmental benefits of these initiatives but also that sustainable practices make good business sense. Our goal to create thousands of 'green jobs' in the coming years for Marylanders is strengthened by initiatives like this.”

Construction of the new facility is scheduled to begin this month.