Firestone Building Products Company, LLC announced that its Bristol, Conn. manufacturing facility was recognized by the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) as a 2014 Northeast Business Leader for Energy Efficiency. The Northeast Business Leaders for Energy Efficiency recognition program highlights the accomplishments of organizations that are participating in energy efficiency programs across the region.
“I’m proud that the energy efficient renovations at our Bristol, Conn. facility were recognized by NEEP,” said Clint Baty, Bristol plant manager. “The energy reduction improvement project demonstrates our focus on sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint. When it comes to energy efficiency, Firestone Building Products is committed to producing results.”
In 2013, the Bristol facility was renovated with energy efficiency in mind. The facility was outfitted with 82 ultra-efficient natural gas infrared heaters to target only occupied areas. In addition, more than 500 LED fixtures with wireless controls and 270 occupancy and ambient lighting sensors were installed, as well as 120 KVA roof-mounted photovoltaic panels over a new partial EPDM white roofing installation designed to make the panels more efficient. The facility also used energy efficient wall insulation, similar to what it produces for roofing insulation for customers.
Altogether the energy efficient renovations amounted to nearly 900,000 kWh in electric savings. When added together, this amount of electricity can power more than 100 Connecticut households for a year.
Teammates at the Bristol facility want to continue to improve their energy efficiency. The facility is planning to install a lobby kiosk to showcase their energy savings and foster customer and teammate awareness of the importance of saving energy. Energy efficiency also is highlighted at Building Products University with an instructor-led program that educates stakeholders in all aspects of roofing and the building envelope.
Selection for the Northeast Business Leaders for Energy Efficiency is based on the following criteria: achieving energy savings through investment in cost efficient measures, addressing comprehensive changes in major energy systems, continuing improvements in energy performance through management level support and operational practices and demonstrating leadership to advance energy efficiency and to promote its benefits within the community.
As part of the Energize Connecticut initiative, the Bristol facility coordinated these energy efficient initiatives with Yankee Gas to ensure the accuracy of contractor documents and calculations.
Firestone Building Products was nominated for the award by Yankee Gas. Teammates and leadership at the Bristol plant were recognized at a ceremony in Newport, RI on June 2-3, 2014.
