sun rises on solar energy operations

Curtis Rueter, a Chevron project manager, is on a mission to help the company meet a growing demand for energy in lower carbon ways.

His latest project is a four-acre solar field that powers a Colorado oil and gas facility. It was designed to generate enough renewable energy to provide for all the facility’s electricity needs.

“Chevron aims to lead in lower carbon energy, and that certainly resonates with me,” said Rueter.

Chevron plans to spend $2 billion from 2021 through 2028 on carbon reduction projects. This solar field represents part of that commitment, which includes powering Chevron’s operations with renewable sources where possible.

It could help Chevron reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 1,000 tons in 2025.

Before joining Chevron, Rueter spent 19 years working as an environmental consultant. His background has given him a unique perspective on the role solar can play in reducing emissions.

Chevron has previously installed solar fields in places such as New Mexico and California.

Now Rueter is hoping to replicate his team’s success at other Colorado facilities.

“It’s been a really inspiring project,” he said. “It’s very gratifying to be able to do something like this.”