As one of the largest suppliers of windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement projects, MI Windows and Doors (MI) has a long history of helping building industry professionals and property owners achieve sustainability goals through its products. The company’s broad selection of windows and doors offers many ENERGY STAR-qualified options to reduce heating and cooling costs.
Naturally, MI strives to make its own facilities as energy efficient as possible, as well. That’s why in 2017, the business decided to make some lighting upgrades at both its Hegins and Millersburg, PA locations.
An LED Retrofit Initiative, Powered by A1 Energy
According to Jeff Paradise, MI Eastern VP Manufacturing and Extrusion, MI decided to pursue a lighting retrofit for the reasons of energy savings and overall lighting appearance. The company decided to partner with A1 Energy, a turnkey solutions provider, after talking with several satisfied A1 Energy clients.
“A1 was one of the vendors that submitted a quote,” explained Paradise. “When we followed up with other companies that had chosen A1 Energy, we were very satisfied hearing the outcomes. Based on those testimonials, we decided to award the project to A1.”
The project was a collaborative effort between Paradise, A1 Energy, and electrical contractor R.S. Enterprises. It involved retrofitting MI’s inefficient T12 fluorescent task lights and metal halide (HID) high bays with cost-effective LED lights.
In December 2017, at MI’s Millersburg location, 481 lights were retrofitted with LEDs. In July 2018, the retrofit of 385 lights at the Hegins facility was completed. All production areas and small office spaces were updated, as well as exterior LEDs at Hegins.
Outstanding Outcomes
The energy and cost savings that MI will experience as a result of the project are substantial.
| MI Millersburg LED Project December 2017 | MI Hegins LED Project July 2018 |
kWh Saved |
869,754 |
732,843 |
Annual Savings |
$65,850 |
$60,019 |
PPL Utility Rebate |
$39,996 |
$84,907 |
Project Payback (in Months) |
17 |
12.2 |
Internal Rate of Return |
67.50% |
97.78% |
Life Cycle Savings (5 years) |
$349,610 |
$342,214 |
“A1 installed the lights in a short amount of time and caused no interruptions to our 24/7 operations. Their techs were courteous and made safety a priority,” explained Paradise. “Since the LED installation, the appearance of the facility has dramatically changed, as well. People who visit our facilities immediately notice and compliment us on it.”
Although MI has no immediate plans for future LED retrofit products, Paradise shared, “Going forward, as we update our lighting, be assured A1 will be listed as part of our RFQ process.”