Kalsec to Install Solar Panels in Kalamazoo Manufacturing Facility
23 Apr 2015 --- A roof-mounted solar energy generation system is scheduled to be on line at Kalsec’s Kalamazoo, Mich., manufacturing operation by the end of August 2015. Harnessing clean solar energy to reduce carbon emissions, the solar energy installation is part of the company's long-term commitment to sustainability.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 31 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions come from electric power. “We believe this commitment to the environment and community is what good business practices are all about. This project will not only contribute to our bottom line, it will create jobs in the community and will reduce our annual carbon footprint by 150 tons,” says Kalsec CEO George Todd.
The project was selected by lottery as part of the Consumers Energy Experimental Advance Renewable Program (EARP). The EARP provides incentives over the span of 15 years for Michigan businesses to install alternative energy equipment in support of the country’s alternative energy goals. Suniva, headquartered in Georgia and with a new manufacturing facility in Michigan, provided the solar panels used for this project further supporting jobs domestically. The general contractor for the project is Helios Solar, LLC, a Kalamazoo-based company specializing in solar photovoltaic system design.