NEW RAIL MOVING TECHNOLOGY REDUCES EQUIPMENT EMISSIONS
Oro Grande, CA, June 4, 2019 – CalPortland announced additional implementation of modern industrial technology at the Oro Grande cement plant following the recent commissioning of the new cement finish mill and loadout facilities.
Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD) awarded a $339,948 grant to CalPortland in Oro Grande as a partner in the replacement of a 1987 Trackmobile with a state-of-the-art 2019 Rail King RK330. The on boarding of this new low emission technology effectively reduces equipment emissions on average by more than 97% compared to the old equipment.
CalPortland received the grant, presented by officials of the MDAQMD, during a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Oro Grande facility. The ceremony included CalPortland officials and MDAQMD Executive Director/Air Pollution Control Officer Brad Poiriez, MDAQMD Governing Board Members Jim Cox and Dawn Rowe, and Don Holland representing MDAQMD Governing Board Member Robert Lovingood.
“We’re thrilled to have been able to work with the Mojave Desert AQMD to win this grant. It allows us to operate a new, modern rail car mover, directly replacing older equipment that had a Tier 0 engine”, said Steve Regis, Senior Vice President Corporate Services, CalPortland.
The grant funding is provided through the MDAQMD Mobile Source Emission Reductions Program pursuant to the authority granted by the CA Legislature through AB 2766. The program authorizes air quality districts to impose a surcharge fee on vehicles registered within district jurisdiction to satisfy new responsibilities mandated under the California Clean Air Act.
“We are happy to partner with any company in their efforts to reduce emissions and help us all breathe a little easier in the Mojave Desert,” Poiriez said. “It’s great to have leaders like CalPortland who are willing to work toward making a cleaner air environment for everyone.”
About CalPortland
CalPortland Company is a major producer of cement, ready mixed concrete, aggregates, concrete products and asphalt in the western United States and Canada. Founded in 1891 with the principle of providing unsurpassed quality, CalPortland remains a leader in the industry through its commitment to quality, safety, customer service, technical excellence and environmental leadership. The company maintains its headquarters in Glendora, California and operates in the Western U.S. and two Canadian Provinces. For more information about CalPortland Company, visit www.calportland.com.
About MDAQMD
MDAQMD is the air pollution control authority and permitting agency for the High Desert portion of San Bernardino County and the Palo Verde Valley in Riverside County. It’s governed by a board of 13 members representing nine incorporated municipalities and two counties within its boundaries.
