Martin Automatic installs renewable energy

Martin Automatic, the global supplier of splicing and rewinding systems, has announced a recent
investment in renewable energy at its headquarters in Rockford, IL, with the successful
implementation of a solar panel project that will help power its manufacturing center.
According to Martin, the solar initiative had been under evaluation for several years culminating in
roof modifications on its 170,000 sq ft facility, a white silicone reflective coating being applied, and a
total of 2800 solar panels being installed in three different fixed planes to harness the sun’s light most
efficiently. The 1.2-megawatt system, which was fully functional by late Spring 2022, represents one
of the largest building solar installations in northern Illinois.
The initial results indicate savings greater than were originally projected, with the company reporting
a reduction in electricity costs of more than 75% from the same period last year. Purchasing Director
Chris Beard, who helped oversee the project, described it as “the meter running backwards.” Excess
electricity generated from the panels is returned to the local power company as part of a net
metering program to offset costs during cloudier periods.
Jonathan Bauch, Martin’s CFO, said: “The renewable energy aspect is significant. We looked at this
project as we do other capital outlays to be sure it would give us a return on our investment that
would make us more efficient and positioned for greater success?” Bauch cited similar examples of
recent investments, such as energy-efficient LED lighting installations for the factory and offices as
well as high-end automated machining centers and streamlined IT systems.
Bauch concluded, “Martin is the leader in the industries we serve because our automation technology
helps our customers realize a high return on their investment. And like our new solar project, those
investments result in greater savings, less waste, and more sustainability.”