HEADLINE CLOSE REQUIRED TO HOME begun . By January , 2015 the new shop was up and operational .”
Energy efficiency The new plant was designed with multiple energy-efficient and sustainable systems . OPEX has a strong track record of implementing such initiatives into its manufacturing operations . Just a few years ago the company installed a 2.77 megawatt solar array system , capable of producing more than 100 percent of the electrical energy needed to operate its total manufacturing , distribution and administrative complex in Moorestown , New Jersey . This effectively made OPEX a net-zero user of electrical power from traditional energy sources . Its conversion to sun power made it the largest solar installation in the state of New Jersey operated by a privately-held company , at the time of its installation . In effect , power required to manufacture the company ’ s entire product line is now derived , 100 percent , from a sustainable source .
Because of the energy-saving and sustainable systems designed into this new metalworking facility , the total energy usage of the company still is less than what is generated through its solar array system , making this new plant , as well , a net-zero user of electrical power from traditional energy sources .
Vision With the many design , production , ergonomic and sustainable systems built into this facility , this new metalworking shop presents a model for more efficient manufacturing . It also overtly makes the statement that manufacturing in the US is on the comeback .
“ There are a number of reasons why OPEX has continued to manufacture its products in the US , instead of outsourcing overseas ,” says Dave Andrews . “ We wanted to have better control over our quality , better responsiveness to our customers , more flexibility with implementing engineering changes , and reduce the cycle time for the introduction of new products .”
“ But underneath all of these , it is simply the commitment to American manufacturing , and the skilled jobs that this brings ,” adds Andrews . “ If more companies shared this vision it would go a long way to building a stronger America .”
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