Capital Steel & Wire's transition to solar energy is a testament to the power of renewable energy in transforming industrial operations.
The energy demands of Capital Steel & Wire's manufacturing facilities are high. Essential processes such as wiring, bar processing, and heat treating require a significant amount of electricity to maintain efficient daily operations. Long-term fluctuations in energy prices pose a risk to the company's success and return on investment (ROI), creating a pressing need for energy independence and a reduced carbon footprint.
With these concerns in mind, Capital Steel & Wire explored viable solutions to achieve energy savings, enhance sustainability, and mitigate the impact of volatile energy costs. The decision to pursue solar energy emerged as a strategic move towards these objectives.
To ensure the solar project would meet the company's energy needs, Harvest Solar conducted a thorough energy analysis of Capital Steel & Wire's facility. Led by solar expert Ken Zebarah, the team meticulously evaluated the company's energy consumption patterns, peak demand periods, and overall usage.
The detailed analysis provided an in-depth understanding of the facility's energy requirements and uncovered the potential savings that a solar installation could offer. The insights gained allowed Harvest Solar to design a customized solar solution tailored to Capital Steel & Wire's specific needs.
Based on the comprehensive energy analysis, Harvest Solar proposed a 99.54 kW ground-mounted solar array as the optimal solution for Capital Steel & Wire. This system was strategically placed to maximize efficiency and allow for potential future expansion of the facility.
The project was executed by Harvest Solar's skilled professionals, who managed the entire installation process from permitting to construction. By adhering to strict zoning requirements and industry standards, the team ensured a seamless installation. Post-installation, Harvest Solar continues to provide ongoing performance monitoring and service to maintain the system's optimal operation.
The implementation of the solar array has yielded impressive results for Capital Steel & Wire. The system has an estimated nameplate capacity of 99.33 kWdc and is projected to generate approximately 130,926 kWh per year. This translates to significant annual savings of $14,751 on utility bills.
Over a span of 30 years, the total projected savings amount to an astounding $738,801. Additionally, the solar array's estimated CO2 offset is equivalent to the emissions from burning 2,816,045 pounds of coal, underscoring the environmental benefits of this initiative. The project also leveraged a 26% Federal Investment Tax Credit, reducing the ROI period to just 7.2 years.
The successful implementation of the solar array marks a significant milestone in Capital Steel & Wire's journey towards sustainability and energy independence. The long-term benefits of reduced energy costs and a lower carbon footprint position the company favorably for future growth and success.
Furthermore, the project was designed with scalability in mind, allowing for easy expansion as the facility's needs evolve. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Capital Steel & Wire can continue to harness the power of renewable energy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable industrial operations.