Meeting Environmental Standards for Future Generations

Wisconsin families cannot really see what Black & Veatch has done for them and their communities. But there will be a difference in their environment with cleaner reliable power. And they will enjoy a better quality of life without thinking about it.I

n 2011, Black & Veatch was chosen to complete the Air Quality Control System Retrofit Project on both units at the 1,023-megawatt Columbia Energy Center. The Columbia Energy Center is operated by Alliant Energy and co-owned with Wisconsin Public Service and Madison Gas and Electric. Black & Veatch designed the first utility flue gas desulfurization system in the United States and continues to lead the industry in air quality control programs.

“This project ensures that we will be able to meet our customers’ needs in an environmentally conscious manner for decades to come.”

Bob Newell, Senior Manager, Strategic Projects, Alliant Energy

Decreasing Emissions

Black & Veatch used proven technologies in the retrofit project at Columbia Energy Center. The result is a significant reduction in emissions of mercury, sulfur dioxide and particulate. This is helping Alliant Energy and co-owners not only meet emissions standards today but decades into the future.

Children playing in school yards and backyards; dairy farmers milking their Holsteins; processors making their famous state cheese and butter; farmers working in the fields of oats, potatoes, carrots and sweet corn; Wisconsinites working hard and living life to the fullest every day – all will benefit from a significant improvement in air quality thanks to the partnership of Alliant Energy and Black & Veatch.

Over 25 years, the retrofit will remove 12,000 pounds of mercury.