Expansion Begins at Cordero to Double Mine Production

Three years ago, when Sun Energy Development Co. (Sunedo) dedicated its Cordero mine in Wyoming, the company noted that its decision to venture into the coal industry was prompted by the need for domestic energy self-sufficiency. Now, as the energy situation assumes crisis proportions and the cry For coal intensifies, Sunedoo has begun a $21 million expansion program that will double the mine's productive capacity by the mid-1980s. When the Cordero come was originally conceived, Sunedoo obtained permission from permitting authorities to produce up to 11 million t/y (12 million stpy) of coal. But seeing opportunities in the coal market, Sunedoo returned to the agencies in 1976 and came away with permission to produce 22 million t/y (24 million stpy). Of that total permitted capacity, Cordero is expected to produce about 3.6 million tons (4 million st) this year.