GROWMARK has been looking at alternative sources of energy for its Alpha, Ill. distribution center since 2010. After previous opportunities to use solar or wind power did not add up for the company, they found the right fit with a solar project completed in the summer of 2018.
GROWMARK is working with Straight Up Solar and investment partner Shine Development Partners, which actually owns the solar array. GROWMARK signed a 25-year agreement to buy power generated from the 525-kilowatt array at reduced rates.
Tracy Mack, Director of Supply Chain Optimization and Logistics, said the company also used pollinator mix available from its FS member companies instead of gravel to fill in the area around the solar panels – a “win-win” from the standpoint of environmental sustainability. He expects GROWMARK will look to expand the project to other facilities if this one proves successful.
Listen to Carrie’s interview with Tracy Mack here: Interview with Tracy Mack, GROWMARK