Solvay mothballs Colorado soda ash on energy cost, losses

HOUSTON (CNI)--Solvay Chemicals’ American Soda unit said Thursday it will mothball soda ash production at its Parachute, Colorado site due to high energy costs and continuing losses.

The company also said today it will mothball solution mining at its Piceance Creek, Colorado mine.

In a statement, Solvay Chemicals vice-president Dick Hogan said the company will supply its bicarbonate production with feedstock from Solvay Chemicals’ low cost soda ash produced at Green River, Wyoming.

It remained unclear Thursday when the mothballing measure will take effect and what capacities are involved.

Officials at Houston, Texas-based American Soda did not return a call requesting additional information Thursday.

Belgium’s Solvay bought American Soda last year from US energy firm Williams.