Discover how a Michigan bean processor transformed their operation with solar energy, cutting costs while scaling from local farms to international distribution.
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For nearly three decades, Bayside Best Beans has built a reputation as a premier dry bean producer and distributor in Sebewaing, Michigan, supplying high-quality Michigan-grown beans to customers around the world. As production expanded, so did the electricity needed to power storage, sorting, polishing, packaging, and shipping. With energy costs continuing to rise, the company sought a long-term solution that would support growth while keeping operating expenses in check.
To meet those goals, Bayside Best Beans partnered with Harvest Solar to install a 120kW roof-mounted solar array on the facility's ideal south-facing roof. The system was designed to maximize energy production without disrupting daily operations or using valuable ground space, allowing the business to continue expanding while generating clean, renewable energy.
"We've done a lot of construction projects. I would say that this project was probably one of the least hands-on that I've had. I didn't really have to manage my time much with this project."
— Rob Chandonnet, General Manager, Bayside Best Beans
The new solar array is expected to generate approximately 142,680 kWh of electricity each year, saving an estimated $11,213 annually on utility costs and more than $661,695 over 30 years. By producing electricity on-site during peak operating hours, the system offsets a significant portion of the facility’s energy use, helping stabilize operating costs, improve overall efficiency, and reduce exposure to rising utility rates over time. This consistent on-site generation allows Bayside Best Beans to better manage energy expenses while maintaining reliable power for its daily processing operations.
For Bayside Best Beans, solar is more than an energy upgrade, it's an investment in the future of the business. Lower operating costs create opportunities for continued growth while allowing the company to remain focused on delivering premium Michigan-grown beans to customers around the globe. The project reflects the same long-term thinking and commitment to quality that has defined Bayside Best Beans for nearly 30 years, demonstrating how renewable energy can help agricultural processors strengthen their operations for decades to come.
As Bayside Best Beans continues serving customers around the world, sustainability has become an increasingly important part of doing business. One of the most common questions they receive from customers is what sustainability initiatives they have in place, making their investment in solar energy a meaningful differentiator. By generating clean, renewable energy on-site, Bayside Best Beans is demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship while supporting long-term business success. The project not only helps reduce operating costs but also aligns with the values of its partners and customers, strengthening the company's competitive position and reinforcing its reputation as a forward-thinking leader in Michigan's agricultural industry.
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