Atlas Copco Tools Installs Solar Panels
AUBURN HILLS -- Atlas Copco says it has invested in solar panel technology at its North American Headquarters in Auburn Hills.
Nine solar panels were installed to supply power to the building, generating a combined 8.8 megawatt-hours a year. The panels yield power on cloudy days as well as sunny. The company's 42nd parallel geographic location receives up to 14 hours of usable sunlight during the summer and 10 hours during the winter. This results in a substantial reduction in carbon emissions and concurrent cost savings.
"This installation feeds power into our grid, so when we don't use the power we receive energy credits from Detroit Edison," explains Anders Hoberg, general manager, Atlas Copco Tools and Assembly Systems, LLC. "The total investment has a calculated payback of less than four years, the way we currently are feeding and using the power."
The strategic plan is to become carbon positive, meaning generating more than enough power for our entire facility with some left over. This project directly supports Atlas Copco's sustainability efforts to continue and actively explore opportunities which support alternative energy generation.
Atlas Copco is an industrial group with world-leading positions in compressors, construction and mining equipment, power tools and assembly systems. The Group delivers sustainable solutions for increased customer productivity through innovative products and services. Founded 1873, the company is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and has a global reach spanning more than 170 countries. In 2010, Atlas Copco had about 33 000 employees. Learn more at www.atlascopco.com.
Atlas Copco Tools and Assembly Systems LLC is a part of Atlas Copco's Industrial Technique business area located in Auburn Hills. It markets hand-held electric and pneumatic tools, assembly systems, software and services to the automotive industry worldwide. It also offers global project management for multinational customers. More information is available on www.atlascopco.us.