KW Flooring companies start phasing in solar energy
In 2011, Ohio ranked fifth in the nation for energy consumption in the industrial sector. In 2013, coal fueled 69 percent of the state’s electricity generation, nuclear energy contributed 12 percent, and natural gas accounted for 15 percent.
All the while, on bright, sunny days, the sun was giving off about 1,000 watts of energy per square meter of the planet’s surface. Collecting that energy with photovoltaic arrays to power our homes and offices is still seen by many as a great option that they cannot afford to invest in. But others see it as something that cannot afford to wait.
“We have to be concerned about energy efficiency if we are concerned about the planet,” Ken Weisbacher, president of KW Flooring says. “That’s why we now have this technology at two of our busiest facilities, and are considering it for additional locations.”
KW Flooring is the parent company of Greater Cincinnati’s Carpetland Carpet One, Buddy’s Flooring America, Schumacher & Co. Custom Hardwood Floors, Big Bob’s Flooring and ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings.
The company has installed photovoltaic arrays at its headquarters in Woodlawn, and at the Big Bob’s in Colerain. At headquarters alone, the two roof-mounted arrays are projected to produce 130,000 kilowatt hours annually.
Photovoltaics were once almost exclusively used in space to power satellites, dating back to the 1950s. Today, this technology has emerged as a feasible, mainstream option for powering homes and businesses.
The photovoltaic panels, integrated with the building utilities and utility grid can supply two-thirds or more of a home or business’s energy. In addition, those who produce electricity from solar panels can sell extra energy produced back to utility companies. In addition, system owners may qualify for federal tax credits, which are scheduled to expire in 2016. ©
