When Green Makes Green

That's what custom processor Echo Molding of Union, NJ found out. Last year at this time, Echo installed a solar energy system supplied by GeoGenix of Rumson, NJ. The move slashed Echo's electric bill by more than $38,000 in the first year, a cost-cutting move that has made the molder more competitive globally, says Armin Schlotterbeck, Echo's molding manager. "Anything we can do to reduce costs will help us keep manufacturing jobs in the U.S.," he said. But as an added benefit, the switch has actually helped the molder increase sales. "Adding solar power to our facility has helped generate sales from clients who are looking for vendors that are environmentally conscious," states Carl Foehner, Echo's director of sales and marketing. We have clients adding 'manufactured in a solar powered facility' to their product packaging."

You think cutting costs and generating additional revenue in one fell swoop is a good strategy? You'll be reading more about Echo Molding soon in Plastics Technology.