Wilsonart Engineering Services team, in tandem with Radiance Solar, Solectra Renewables, Cantsink and Duke Energy Process, developed and installed a complete solar energy system unveiled at Wilsonart’s Fletcher, North Carolina facility. The system will cut carbon dioxide emissions by more than 900 tons per year, reduce mono-nitrogen oxide emissions by more than 11,000 lbs. per year and reduce sulfur oxide emissions by 2,564 lbs. per year.
Wilsonart, a leading manufacturer of decorative engineered surfaces for more than 50 years, unveiled the new solar power energy system as part of the company’s continuing commitment to sustainability, or “Full Circle” journey. The journey is guided by three enduring goals: to reach zero barriers to growth and engagement in communities; zero impact on the environment by developing and using environmentally responsible materials; and zero waste by eliminating unnecessary materials, processes and waste from the products Wilsonart makes and sells. Together, these principals contribute to the long-term environmental and economic sustainability of the region.
The addition of the 2,916 roof- and ground-mounted solar panels will generate approximately 1.25 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy – enough to provide electricity for more than 100 homes for a year – and offset electricity purchased for Wilsonart’s manufacturing processes.
“As a mature, reliable technology, solar energy helps us meet three objectives: update our infrastructure to maintain our competitiveness in the global economy; protect the health and beauty of the environments where we do business; and save on our energy costs for the next 20 to 30 years,” said Tim O’Brien, Wilsonart President and CEO. “The Fletcher solar project, as well as the recycling of all materials within the plant, speak to the effort our employees have made toward meeting our sustainability goals and ensuring we are supporting our environment on a local and regional level.”
“It’s programs like Duke Energy Progress’ Net Metering Program and state incentives like the state of NC tax credit that help stimulate new markets and create opportunities for new technologies to become cost competitive with traditional fossil fuels like coal and natural gas,” says James Marlow, Radiance Solar CEO. “Though the cost of solar has come down over 80 percent in the last five years, and has reached grid parity in some states, these incentives also help cushion the high upfront cost of solar often considered to be a barrier for solar to be a widely adopted energy source.”
Key Facts of the Wilsonart Solar Project: