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MC Assembly Installs 72-Panel Solar System in Florida
August 3, 2018 | MC AssemblyEstimated reading time: 2 minutes
EMS provider MC Assembly is harnessing the power of the Florida sun with its new solar panel array at its Melbourne manufacturing location. The new 72-panel six-array system can produce 21,600kW, saving the company an estimated 42,000-kWh per year. The project was overseen and installed by Brevard Solar.
"We believe in being a positive part of our community and making thoughtful, environmentally friendly contributions to the places we work and live in," said George Moore, president and CEO of MC Assembly. "Environmental initiatives like our new solar panel project are aimed at reducing our impact on the environment while also shrinking our carbon footprint."
The solar panels are the latest energy-conscious initiative from MC Assembly. Last year, the company introduced several initiatives to help lead the way for the manufacturing industry to be better stewards of the environment. These initiatives include local volunteering, the introduction of a water recycling system at its Melbourne facility, recycling initiatives company-wide, reduced power consumption and on-site nitrogen generation.
Reducing Power Consumption with LEDs
In addition to installing the new 72-panel six-array solar panel system, MC Assembly’s Boston facility installed high efficiency LED lighting in its shop floor saving approximately $1,200 per month in lighting costs. MC Assembly’s Melbourne headquarters is in the process of purchasing and installing new LED lighting fixtures to replace about 880 current bulbs.
The LEDs are plug replaceable with fluorescent representing a significant reduction in power usage of approximately 41,200 kilowatt hours per year. Company officials estimate they save about $4,120 per year in electric costs. There are plans to install LED lighting in MC Assembly’s Mexico facility as well.
Reducing Annual Water Consumption by 74%
In 2016, MC Assembly installed a Closed Loop Process Water Recycling System in its Melbourne headquarters, reducing annual water consumption by more than 74 percent. The water savings totals more than 3 million gallons annually, reducing waste while reallocating water usage into a more efficient and eco-friendly system. Both the Boston and Mexico facilities also use similar closed loop water systems for the PCBA cleaning process.
Robust Recycling Programs
All three MC Assembly facilities recycle plastics, cardboard and metals to reduce landfill waste. Last year alone, MC Assembly recycled more than 25 tons of manufacturing material. The company has also invested in equipment to recycle solder dross, reducing the solder waste by 70 percent.
On-Site Nitrogen Generator
In electronics manufacturing, nitrogen plays an important role. Nitrogen is used to reduce the oxidation and dross build up in the Ersa and Wave soldering machines and can be used in the SMT machines. In its previous Florida facility, MC Assembly needed to truck in nitrogen every month. When it moved into its new Melbourne facility, instead of moving the nitrogen silo, MC Assembly installed an on-site nitrogen generator.
"It's simply looking for new ways to solve day-to-day problems," said Thomas Hansen, Vice President of Operations for MC Assembly. "We're committed to being environmental stewards in the areas where we do business."
For more information about MC Assembly, please visit www.mcati.com.
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