Originally published on Stjoechannel.com. Reported by Edward Burch.
Becker Underwood, a company known for green solutions for farmers, is now making the move toward a “green” future.
The company recently bought and installed 84 solar panels, making it the largest private solar array in St. Joseph. The goal, is to reduce carbon emissions, while promoting self-sustainability
Chris Feiden, Head of Operations for Becker Underwood in St. Joseph said, “Basically we look at this as a prepayment of energy. We all know where energy prices are going. They are never getting cheaper. So if we can prepay our energy now and lock it in a certain rate, it will help us out in the long run.
The panels, provided by Brightergy Solar Solutions are said to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 789 tons over the next 25 years. That is the equivalent of more than 2 1/2 million miles not being driven. Along with the green incentives, there are several other benefits.
Susan Brown, V.P. of Business Development for Brightergy said, “Not only do you get a 30% federal tax grant for 2011, they also get a $2 per watt solar rebate from KCP&L which takes another 30% off the project, and then they can depreciate the entire project cost in the first year.”
In order for the panels to work properly, it’s better to have a flat or slanted roof, facing a southern sun. The system lasts for nearly 40 years.