Sherco Solar III
Enhancing Environmental and Economic Sustainability at Sherco Solar III with FODS Trackout Control Mats
In Sherburne County, Minnesota, Xcel Energy spearheads the Sherco Solar. This ambitious three-part endeavor will have a combined capacity of up to 710 MW. This project aims to succeed the Sherco Generating Plant Unit 2, a coal-driven power station. The shift toward solar began in October 2016, and the coal plant's retirement slated for 2023. Strategically positioned amidst agricultural expanses, the Sherco Solar Project: Phase 1 and Phase 2 stretch between the U.S. Highway 10 and the Mississippi River, flanking the eastern and western perimeters of the former Sherco Generating Plant. Parallel to this, Sherco Solar III, nestled in Clear Lake, is the third phase in this push towards renewable energy, covering a vast 1,750 acres. With a projection of up to 250 megawatts being sent into the grid, it exemplifies Minnesota's pursuit of a 30% renewable energy standard by 2020. As with all construction ventures, attention to environmental impact is pivotal. It's here that FODS Trackout Control Mats have demonstrated their advantages over traditional construction entrances by minimizing environmental impact and waste production during construction as well as reducing costs.
FODS Trackout Control Mats are innovative devices designed to mitigate trackout - the trail of dust, dirt, and other debris that construction vehicles often leave behind when moving in and out of work sites. The mats at Sherco Solar III played a pivotal role in maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of the construction site and surrounding areas. The project started with one entrance; as phases progressed, more site entrances were added, making the lightweight and highly versatile FODS Reusable Construction Entrance the perfect site solution. The mats preserve stormwater quality and maintain EPA regulations by preventing the harmful runoff typically associated with large construction sites. FODS Reusable Construction Entrances are an integral part of keeping the beauty of the surrounding nature intact, a significant concern given the high visibility and vast footprint of the Sherco Solar III project.
Unlike traditional rock-based trackout control solutions, FODS mats offer a reusable and efficient alternative. Traditional methods often require substantial labor and equipment to install and maintain, with an ongoing need for rock replacement and site cleanup. FODS mats, on the other hand, provide a quick, simple, and reusable solution, saving valuable time and energy during construction (and reducing construction entrance related emissions by up to ~75%).
Financially, FODS mats offer a significant advantage by shifting stabilized construction exit costs from variable to fixed costs. Traditional rock-based methods incur ongoing costs for rock replacement, remediation, and maintenance. However, the one-time purchase and installation of FODS mats circumvent these costs by offering maneuverability and superior trackout control; as large-scale projects like Sherco progress, the need for new access points has increased. Since FODS's initial deployment on-site, the same four mats have been relocated to create two additional access points. FODS mats provide a more predictable and economical solution for large-scale projects like Sherco Solar III.
FODS Trackout Control Mats are the most effective option for any sized job. In a third-party study comparing FODS to traditional rock entrances conducted by The Harris County Flood Control District in Texas, FODS reduced street sweeping maintenance by 59%, decreased refresh and repairs by almost 100%, and increased overall compliance within a Construction General Permit, reducing liability by preventing trackout onto public roadways.
Additionally, FODS are manufactured using 10-15% post-consumer recycled materials in their construction. This emphasis on recycled content reduces the demand for virgin materials, promoting resource efficiency. Furthermore, the superior track-out control offered by the mats protects local water bodies from potential contamination, contributing to the broader environmental objectives of the Sherco Solar III project.
FODS Trackout Control Mats at Sherco Solar III underscores the importance of integrating sustainable practices into every stage of a renewable energy project, even during construction. The mats offer significant time, energy, environmental, and financial benefits, contributing to the project's sustainability objectives. These advantages also highlight the importance of conscious decision-making in large-scale developments. The Sherco Solar III project, thus, serves as a role model for future renewable energy ventures, demonstrating the value of comprehensive environmental stewardship and financial efficiency.
ABOUT FODS, LLC.
Based in Centennial Colorado, FODS is working to replace ineffective and costly traditional rock stabilized construction entrances, saving you time and money. Our proprietary mat design works to effectively remove debris from your vehicle tires without damaging the tire or the ground’s surface. We provide the only durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly trackout control system currently available on the market. FODS Vehicle Trackout Controls BMP mats are 100% Made In the USA and 100% recyclable.
To find out more information on how we can help your project stay on schedule and in compliance contact 844-200-3637 or email us at info@getfods.com.