IFAI Installs Solar Panels Reducing Costs and Pollution

Published On: November 13, 2018

Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) headquarters, located in Roseville, Minnesota, reduced their electricity usage by installing solar energy panels. Projected savings is $85,000 over the next 20 years which ATA plans to reinvest.

“One of our core values is to reduce our environmental footprint and the solar array is a big step. We will be able to decrease our reliance on electricity and reinvest the savings in our members,” said ATA President and CEO Steve Schiffman.

The solar panels have a life of 30 years, but often last longer. This is comparable to the life of a roof. Furthermore, the panels generate renewable solar energy that can supplement others’ energy use. Not to mention, ATA’s annual utility expense will decrease.

In addition, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, “solar energy systems do not produce air pollution, water pollution, or greenhouse gases.” Consequently, using solar panels has a positive impact on the environment.

The solar panels were installed by iDEAL Energies, a Minneapolis-based solar energy developer. Currently, they have over 200 commercial systems in operation.

Other companies utilizing solar power include Target Corporation, Walmart and Apple. Target Corporation was ranked number one for corporate solar users by installed capacity (Megawatts) in 2017 on the Solar Means Business report conducted by Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

Another initiative that ATA has undertaken to save members’ money is partnering with APPI Energy. The goal of this collaborative partnership is to provide our members with data-driven consulting solutions, designed to help them save time and create budget certainty on the energy procurement process. APPI Energy can help members by recommending when to buy energy and which contract length is best. APPI Energy has over 22 years of industry experience. They are also endorsed by 158 affinity groups, trade associations and chambers of commerce across the U.S., covering industries including healthcare, manufacturing, property management, retain and nonprofit.

About ATA

 

Advanced Textiles Association is a member-owned, member-driven trade association representing the global industrial fabrics industry since 1912. ATA invests more than $8 million each year to advance the industry and support member companies. ATA provides members with relevant information, sourcing solutions and networking opportunities to sustain and grow their business. For more information visit www.textiles.org.