AER saves $3.9m on long-term energy costs

Strengthening environmental credentials

AER Worldwide, an electronic waste recycler in Fremont, California, wanted an energy investment that could add value to its property and strengthen its commitment to the environment. With solar power, AER could do both. However, it needed to act fast to take advantage of expiring state incentives.

Maximizing payback

As an electronic waste recycler, AER Worldwide was already strongly committed to the environment. Therefore, the decision to go solar not only made good business sense, but it fit with the company’s overall mission. The company’s heavy machinery uses a lot of energy and going solar was made even more urgent due to rising electrical rates, the uncertainty of future energy costs, and expiring state rebates.

AER turned to Centrica Business Solutions because of its many solar options and strong commitment to maximizing savings. Centrica Business Solutions’ offering of high-quality solar products helped to provide AER with reliable long-term payback.

Centrica Business Solutions’ experience and expertise helped to overcome challenges and delivered the project in a timely manner and on budget. The end result is a 234 kW solar system that will generate approximately 361,819 kWh per year for AER’s headquarters.

The results

Over the next 25 years, the company’s total savings are estimated to reach almost $4 million. The project was completed in time to capitalize on state incentives. Making both business and ethical sense, solar power is an investment AER can bank on for years to come.

AER was so pleased with the financial return of its initial solar system investment that it worked with Centrica Business Solutions again in 2013 to expand its system by 151 kW.

AER has not only expanded its business commitment to sustainability, but also created a powerful hedge against rising energy costs with solar power. By generating clean electricity, AER removes the equivalent of 259 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere.

Why Centrica Business Solutions?

• Centrica Business Solutions’ solar installation offsets over 99% of AER’s energy requirements with efficient, renewable energy
• Solar installations are custom-designed to the specific site to maximize energy production based on available sunlight
• Custom financing is available to meet a variety of commercial needs when installing a solar system
• Centrica Business Solutions’ experience and track record demonstrate preparedness to help organizations find the best solar solution for their business
• Industry-leading 10-year warranties and guarantees demonstrate Centrica Business Solutions’ commitment to delivering high-quality solar installations