Kolbe Doors and Windows Company recently completed the installation and commissioning of a solar panel system on the roof of its main manufacturing plant located in Wausau, Wisconsin. The system consists of 2061 photovoltaic panels with a power of 999.6 kilowatts, expected to offset 31.8% of the current energy consumption of the window manufacturer's factory.

Kolbe worked closely with Northwind Solar, a photovoltaic contractor from Amherst, to jointly design and install the system. This array uses double-sided components that can absorb additional sunlight reflected from the back of the panel. The installation work will begin in 2024, with some funding supported by the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Grant, which is part of the Rural Energy Program (REAP).

We are delighted to utilize the idle space on the factory roof to do something so meaningful: improve our operational efficiency and reduce our carbon footprint, "said Jeff DeLonay, President of Kolbe Doors and Windows. This project is one of our important efforts to better serve our team, community, and environment

In addition, in 2022, Kolbe installed a smaller 19.72 kW, 58 panel solar project on the roof of its innovative greenhouse located in Vostok.

Kolbe's commitment to energy efficiency is not limited to solar panel systems. The company has implemented multiple measures, including installing timed controlled LED ceiling lights, optimizing humidification systems, and air replenishment devices to improve energy efficiency.