Solar project begins operations at Indy construction company
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West Lafayette-based Emergent Solar Energy has begun operation of a $500,000 solar project at the Indianapolis headquarters of Abel Construction Co. Emergent Managing Partner Jeremy Lipinksi said the project is one of the largest of its kind in Indianapolis.
The company, headquartered in the Purdue Research Park, says the bifacial solar panels will span more than 21,000 square feet on the roof of Abel Construction’s facility near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The panels are expected to generate nearly 290,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable energy, enough to power more than 39 homes annually.
“It is also an example of how solar can be integrated into existing commercial buildings to offset utility-purchased electricity, provide economic benefits through commercial tax incentives and help businesses accomplish their sustainability goals,” Lipinski said in a news release.
Mitchell Abel, vice president of business development for Abel Construction, said the investment is a major step in the company’s sustainable energy objectives.
“By adopting this clean energy solution, Abel Construction aims to become a role model within the industry and inspire other businesses to embrace solar energy as a viable and eco-friendly alternative,” Abel said.
Abel told Inside INdiana Business the company expects to save about $1.5 million in energy costs over the life of the solar panels.
“Through the utilization of solar energy, we will significantly reduce our reliance on traditional electricity sources, resulting in substantial cost savings and long-term financial stability,” Abel said.
The building is also home to Abel Motorsports, which owns a team in the Indy NXT series and is fielding the No. 50 car driven by RC Enerson in the Indianapolis 500.