Renewable Energy Magazine – Companies complete solar array to power concrete utility pole manufacturing facility

Cleantech integrator Ameresco, which specialises in energy efficiency and renewable energy, has announced the completion of a solar installation in Bristol, Indiana, for Valmont Industries, a large producer of utility structures, which is designed to offset 100 percent of the plant’s electricity usage.

As part of the agreement, Ameresco installed 718 kilowatts-direct current/500 kilowatts-alternating current of ground-mounted PV modules utilising Valmont’s very-own racking and Convert single-axis tracking system. The completed system will produce approximately 980,000 kWh of electricity annually, offsetting nearly 766 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in its first year alone. Over its 25-year expected useful life, the installation will offset approximately 18,040 tons of emissions.

“The eco-concrete utility pole product launching at the Bristol facility and its onsite solar array showcase Valmont’s focus as an industrial technology company delivering disruptive technologies to lead and transform the industries we serve” said Aaron Schapper, president of Valmont Infrastucture. “As part of the long-term need for critical infrastructure, we recognise the vital role energy generation and transmission products will play in the energy transition super cycle as well as the importance of sustainability in the products, services and solutions we deliver that conserve resources and improve life. How we deliver is just as important as what we deliver.”

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