• Posted: December 10, 2024
• better careers, better communities, better construction, Renewable Energy, The Power of Better

In the latest episode of The Power of Better, host Elbert Walters III, Executive Director of Powering Chicago, takes viewers to the heart of Glenview, Illinois, to explore ABT Electronics’ remarkable journey toward energy efficiency and sustainability. With one million square feet of space—including a sparkling showroom, expansive warehouses, and a state-of-the-art recycling center—ABT Electronics faced the challenge of reducing energy consumption while meeting ambitious environmental goals.

ABT found the answer in a revolutionary renewable energy system designed to enhance resiliency, boost sustainability, and deliver measurable financial benefits. By partnering with Powering Chicago signatory contractor Continental Electric Construction Company, ABT transformed its energy infrastructure, paving the way for a greener and more efficient future.

The Scale of the Challenge

The expansive ABT Electronics campus demands significant energy resources to operate its facilities, from the showroom floor to its warehouses and recycling center. Co-Owner Mike Abt, whose biology background gives him a unique perspective on sustainability, explains that the new renewable energy system not only saves the company $400,000 annually but also reflects ABT’s commitment to future generations.

“Incorporating renewable energy? There’s no reason not to do it. At almost all times, it’s the right thing to do, first of all, and you should think about, you know, future generations, but you really end up making money often,” said Mike Abt, Owner of ABT Electronics.

This forward-thinking philosophy, coupled with a desire to reduce environmental impact, set the stage for a transformative project that would redefine energy efficiency at ABT Electronics.

Collaboration Drives Success

To bring their vision to life, ABT partnered with both Continental Electric Construction Company and Convergence Energy, a clean energy solutions provider specializing in solar and storage systems. Convergence Energy handled crucial elements such as securing federal and state incentives and optimizing the PJM transmission grid for financial benefits.

“We are able to actually manage the battery in a way that it serves an important role to PJM in terms of grid stability. And there’s financial return for that on ABT’s project here,” said Troy Hammond, CEO of Convergence Energy.

While Continental Electric Construction Company took the lead in designing, procuring, and installing the solar and energy storage systems across ABT’s campus.

“Continental Electric’s Renewable Energy Division not only designed but also procured and completed the installation of all the solar systems on this campus,” said Brian Swiatek, Director of Field Operations at Continental Electric Construction Company.

Innovative Renewable Energy Solutions

Continental Electric Construction Company’s work resulted in a cutting-edge renewable energy system that redefines ABT Electronics’ energy efficiency. The project features three solar arrays installed across the main building, new warehouse, and recycling center, which together generate 2.6 megawatts and approximately 3,300 megawatt-hours annually. Two Megapack battery energy storage systems store up to 2,900 megawatt-hours per year, allowing ABT to offset internal energy costs and enhance operational efficiency.

“The actual solar array produces a thousand times more energy than can be stored, which the customer on the site here utilizes to offset internal costs in their facility,” said Swiatek.

Key to ABT Electronics’ success was the collaboration with Powering Chicago signatory contractor Continental Electric Construction Company. The company’s expertise in renewable energy systems proved critical in overcoming the challenges of such a large-scale project.

“So we were able to hook up with The IBEW Local 134 and Continental Electric,
Said Abt. “And they had done this before. They knew what they were doing. And it’s of utmost importance to do it the right way.”

Continental Electric’s Renewable Energy Division designed and installed the solar and energy storage systems that power ABT’s operations. The company credits the skilled electricians trained by IBEW Local 134 for their ability to execute such a complex and transformative project.

“They know exactly how to scope out and manage the construction of the project. Partnering with the IBEW on all the work that they do so that it’s done in a quality manner,” said Hammond.

Through innovative renewable energy solutions and expert collaboration, ABT Electronics showcases how businesses can reduce energy costs while making strides in environmental stewardship. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration, expertise, and forward-thinking vision.

Discover more inspiring stories like this—subscribe to The Power of Better YouTube channel and watch the latest episode to see how renewable energy is driving meaningful change.