RLS Logistics, one of the region's leading temperature-controlled logistics providers, and HelioSage, a Mid-Atlantic solar project developer, have announced plans to retrofit the RLS headquarters with solar electricity. The roof-mounted solar array, with a capacity of approximately 1.5 megawatts, will be capable of producing nearly two million kilowatt-hours of clean power each year and is expected to generate significant energy cost savings for RLS over the life of the system.

Under a contract known as a Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA, RLS will simply host the solar array and pay a monthly solar power bill, allowing the company to go solar without any capital outlay. At no point will RLS be responsible for any capital expenditures or ongoing operations and maintenance costs. Under the 15-year contract, the price RLS will pay for solar electricity comes at a considerable discount to its current rates for utility power.  

A 1.5 MW solar array in New Jersey can generate around 1.8 million kilowatt-hours annually, according to HelioSage’s Chief Operating Officer, Matt Hantzmon. Says Mr. Hantzmon, “The solar array that RLS will host is essentially a mini-power plant on the facility’s roof. We anticipate annual electricity production sufficient to power 160 average U.S. homes.”

According to RLS CEO Anthony M. Leo, that number represents about 25% of his facility’s annual energy requirements. “I was pleasantly surprised to learn that we could generate a quarter of our facility’s power needs from a clean source, and at a better price," said Mr. Leo. “RLS has a reputation for delivering innovative supply chain solutions that benefit our customers, our partners, and our community. This is a great example.”

A review of the RLS facility’s roofing systems is currently underway to determine what, if any, modifications will be required prior to the commencement of construction. According to Mr. Hantzmon, this is typical. “Our approach is the same with every project  - first, ensure we have properly addressed our client’s chief concern, which is invariably the preservation of their facility - especially the roof.” Adds Hantzmon, “We’re working directly with RLS’ roofing contractor on some fairly unique solutions to provide everyone involved the appropriate peace of mind.”

Construction on the RLS solar project is tentatively set to begin May 2011.

 

About RLS Logistics

RLS, headquartered in Newfield, New Jersey, is one of the region's leading temperature-controlled logistics providers offering superior transportation, warehousing, packaging and distribution services. Customers include refrigerated and frozen food processors, importers and marketers, food service distributors, supermarket chains and shopping clubs. To learn more about RLS, please visit www.rlslogistics.com.

 

About HelioSage

HelioSage is a solar energy services provider. The company was founded by several of the principals of Greenlight Energy, Inc., one of the country's largest independent wind energy companies at the time of its sale to BP Alternative Energy in 2006. With experience built upon developing 400 MW of renewable energy projects, HelioSage reduces risk and ensures sound investments in both solar electricity and solar energy systems. For more information about HelioSage, please visit www.heliosage.com.

Media Contact: Danny Van Clief | dvanclief@heliosage.com

 

 

 

"I was pleasantly surprised to learn that we could generate a quarter of our facility's power needs from a clean source, and at a better price". - Anthony M. Leo, CEO, RLS Logistics