Laser cutting supplier LVD expands solar power system

Gullegem, Belgium -- LVD Co. nv, a manufacturer of laser cutting systems, has completed the second phase of solar panel installation for its Belgium facilities.

Working with partners Linea-Trovata and investment firm Sun Invest III, solar panels have been installed on LVD's production and assembly buildings and five other associated structures, totaling ~32,500 sq. m of covered roof space. The system will provide more than 30% of the company's annual electricity, an installed power base equivalent to approximately 350 domestic households. (The system also feeds power back to Belgium's national grid during weekends and holidays.)

"We consider it a priority to reduce dependency on carbon generated power, reduce our energy costs, and act in an environmentally responsible manner by minimizing the environmental impact of our production facilities," stated Carl Dewulf, president and managing director of LVD. "The use of solar cells is a green initiative that supports and uses clean, renewable energy. In choosing it, we move closer to our goal of sustainable business practices."

It's not the first business improvement LVD has undertaken. Earlier this year LVD began implementing a "world-class manufacturing" initiative at its LVD Strippit (US) and LVD Co. (Belgium) operations to improve throughput, reduce waste and assure product quality.