Union Pacific Serves Solar Plant: Rail Infrastructure in Illinois

Introduction

Union Pacific Railroad has commenced service to Manner Polymers’ new solar-powered plant in Mount Vernon, Illinois. The 80,000-square-foot facility, which opened in late August, is connected to the UP mainline via a 1,000-foot rail spur.

Solar-Powered Plant

Facility Overview

Manner Polymers, a PVC compounds manufacturer, has opened a new facility in Mount Vernon, Illinois. The plant encompasses 80,000 square feet and is powered by a 15-acre on-site solar field.

Rail Infrastructure

A 1,000-foot rail spur was built to connect the Manner Polymers facility to the Union Pacific mainline.

Investment and Incentives

Manner Polymers invested $54 million in the plant’s construction. This investment was supported by the “Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois” state incentive package.

Opening Ceremony

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Manner Polymers plant on August 28.

Conclusion

Manner Polymers’ new solar-powered plant in Mount Vernon, Illinois, is now served by Union Pacific Railroad. The facility, supported by state incentives, features a 15-acre solar field and a rail spur connection to the UP mainline. Last June 2025, we published an article about Renfe’s Aranjuez maintenance hub. Click here to read – Future of Rail: Renfe’s Railway Technology Hub, Aranjuez: Essential Guide

Company Summary

Union Pacific Railroad: The company provides freight transportation services across the western two-thirds of the United States.

Manner Polymers: A PVC compounds manufacturer.