In the heart of California’s Mojave Desert, a groundbreaking milestone in sustainable manufacturing is taking shape. Pacific Steel Group (PSG), a leading independent reinforcing steel fabricator and placer, has broken ground on the Mojave Micro Mill, the first new steel mill in California in over 50 years. This state-of-the-art facility, located near Bakersfield, is setting a new standard for eco-conscious steel production, blending cutting-edge technology with a bold commitment to environmental stewardship. By leveraging renewable energy, advanced recycling techniques, and innovative water management systems, PSG is redefining what it means to produce steel sustainably. Let’s dive into the exciting details of this transformative project and explore how PSG’s sustainability initiatives are reshaping the industry.
A Game-Changer for Green Steel
The Mojave Micro Mill, expected to reach full capacity by 2027 with an annual production of 450,000 tons of rebar steel, is not just another factory—it’s a beacon of innovation. Unlike traditional steel mills that rely heavily on fossil fuels, this facility is designed to operate primarily on renewable energy sources, including solar panels and wind turbines strategically placed on 63 acres of dedicated land adjacent to the 174-acre site. This renewable energy portfolio powers the mill’s electric arc furnace (EAF), which converts locally sourced steel scrap into high-quality, custom-length rebar—a critical material for infrastructure and climate-resilient construction.
By utilizing hybrid mill technology and a localized supply chain, the Mojave Micro Mill is projected to produce rebar with 85% fewer emissions compared to conventional methods. This drastic reduction in carbon footprint is a testament to PSG’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with California’s ambitious climate goals. As Eric Benson, CEO of Pacific Steel Group, stated, “This innovative project aligns with our objective to provide the highest-quality materials while lowering our environmental footprint.” Pacific Steel Group is not only meeting the demand for greener building materials but also proving that sustainability and economic viability can go hand in hand.
Zero Liquid Discharge: A Water-Saving Revolution
One of the standout features of the Mojave Micro Mill is its partnership with Russula, a global leader in water treatment solutions for the steel industry, to implement a Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system. This cutting-edge technology ensures that no wastewater is released into the environment, addressing California’s stringent effluent regulations while maximizing water reuse. The ZLD system employs ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis membranes to treat and recycle water, significantly reducing purge volumes. Additionally, Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) pre-treatment removes oils and contaminants, ensuring that the water used in the steelmaking process is clean and reusable.
This approach is a game-changer in a water-scarce region like the Mojave Desert. By prioritizing water conservation, PSG is setting a new benchmark for sustainable industrial practices, demonstrating that even resource-intensive industries like steel production can operate with minimal environmental impact. The ZLD system not only protects local ecosystems but also reduces operational costs by minimizing the need for fresh water, making it a win-win for both the planet and the bottom line.
Renewable Energy and Carbon Capture: A Holistic Approach
The Mojave Micro Mill’s sustainability efforts extend beyond water management. By integrating on-site renewable energy sources, PSG is reducing its reliance on the utility grid, which often includes carbon-intensive power generation. The mill’s proximity to solar farms and wind turbines ensures a steady supply of clean energy, while a carbon capture system offsets emissions during the rare instances when grid power is used. This forward-thinking strategy shields PSG from volatile energy prices and further lowers the mill’s environmental footprint.
Moreover, the use of locally sourced steel scrap eliminates the need for long-distance transportation of raw materials and finished products, cutting down on transportation-related emissions. This localized approach not only reduces the carbon footprint but also provides a competitive edge by lowering logistics costs. As Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board, noted, “Pacific Steel Group’s Mojave Micro Mill highlights the California way to green manufacturing. This project is setting the standard for the steel industry by utilizing on-site renewable energy to produce green rebar with a significantly lower carbon footprint.”
Economic and Community Impact
The Mojave Micro Mill is more than just an environmental triumph—it’s a catalyst for economic growth and community development. Supported by a $30 million California Competes tax credit from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), the project is expected to create nearly 450 new jobs in its first five years of operation. PSG is also collaborating with local educational institutions, including California State University, Bakersfield, Kern Community College District, and Antelope Valley Community College, to establish training programs and career pathways in steel manufacturing. These initiatives are equipping the next generation of workers with the skills needed to thrive in a green economy.
The mill’s focus on local scrap recycling further strengthens the regional economy by keeping resources and jobs within California. By transforming waste into high-quality rebar, PSG is contributing to a circular economy, where materials are reused and repurposed to minimize waste. This approach aligns with broader sustainability trends, as highlighted by Generate Capital, which provided a $200 million secured loan to support the mill’s construction. “PSG’s innovative approach demonstrates how we can significantly reduce emissions in the industrial sector while meeting the rising demand for greener building materials economically,” said Bill Sonneborn, President of Generate Capital.
Pacific Steel Group’s Broader Sustainability Vision
While the Mojave Micro Mill is a flagship project, PSG’s commitment to sustainability extends to its operations across the Western United States. With over 1,500 employees and a reputation as one of the largest reinforcing steel fabricators in the country, PSG is leveraging its expertise to drive sustainability in all facets of its business. From adopting energy-efficient technologies to prioritizing recycled materials, the company is embedding environmental responsibility into its core operations.
PSG’s partnership with Generate Capital and Russula underscores its dedication to collaborating with industry leaders to push the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing. By investing in cutting-edge technologies like EAFs, ZLD systems, and renewable energy integration, PSG is not only reducing its environmental impact but also inspiring other steel producers to follow suit. The Mojave Micro Mill is a shining example of how innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability can transform an industry.
Pacifico Energy: Powering the Future of Industry
At the forefront of the clean energy revolution, Pacifico Energy is working with large energy users like steel producers, glass fabricators, manufacturers, farmers, and mining operations to deliver tailored, sustainable energy solutions. Specializing in behind-the-meter (BTM) and distributed generation (DG) projects, Pacifico Energy designs, finances, builds, and manages power systems that integrate solar, wind, battery energy storage systems (BESS), green hydrogen, and cogeneration. These solutions help industrial clients reduce energy costs, lower emissions, and achieve their sustainability goals.
Pacifico Energy goes beyond traditional energy providers by offering end-to-end support, from project development to long-term operations. For facilities requiring significant power, Pacifico is ready to purchase land adjacent to industrial sites and build custom alternative energy power plants tailored to specific needs. With a proven track record of delivering over 1 GW of renewable power projects globally, Pacifico Energy is a trusted partner for industries seeking to decarbonize. Whether it’s a steel mill, a glass fabrication plant, or a mining operation, Pacifico’s innovative approach ensures reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
Interested in exploring how Pacifico Energy can transform your energy strategy? Visit www.pacificoenergy.com for a free assessment and discover how customized renewable energy solutions can power your business into a sustainable future.
