Lancaster County, Pa., known for its rich agricultural heritage, is increasingly being recognized for sustainability with businesses like Messick’s Farm Equipment leading the charge towards renewable energy. Messick’s headquarters in Rapho Township, Pa., now has over 2,200 solar panels that cover the roof. The addition has a 1.07-megawatt capacity, which ranks in the top 10 of the largest solar arrays located in Lancaster County, according to LNP LancasterOnline.
The decision to embrace solar energy was supported by financial and environmental factors. Messick’s foresees a potential reduction of up to 90% in annual electric expenses, according to LNP LancasterOnline.Using solar energy for the headquarters offsets the environmental footprint from other parts of the business, like its fleet of service trucks.
“We can’t replace what’s happening on the road, but we can offset it here,” says Kevin Messick, corporate administrator at Messick’s Farm Equipment.
After months of planning and installation, PPL Electric Utilities gave final approval for the solar arrays in May. By June, Messick’s had already seen a 30% decrease in its monthly electricity bill, a trend they plan to reduce to 10% of last year’s bill in July.
The inspiration for Messick’s solar endeavor came partly from neighboring businesses like Four Seasons Produce, whose 3-megawatt solar array in East Cocalico Township set a precedent for sustainable practices in the region, according to LNP LancasterOnline. Randy Groff, director of facilities and energy at Four Seasons, says the solar investment slashed electricity costs by 40% in 2018. Groff is expecting an additional 20% cost reduction in 2024 from the array.
Susan Bell, executive operations specialist at Kreider Farms in Lancaster County, says the company has saved over $2.5 million since its initial solar investments in 2017.
The impact extends beyond individual businesses. Lancaster County now boasts some of the largest solar installations in Pennsylvania, with the largest one being Keystone Solar’s installation of 6 megawatts, according to LNP LancasterOnline.
Lancaster County businesses are not just reducing costs but also inspiring others to follow suit. Interest in solar technologies is growing, driven by success stories like Messick’s and Four Seasons Produce, prompting more businesses to explore the economic and environmental benefits of solar adoption.
