Rapids mill recognized for energy reduction

An article from the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune:

NewPage’s converting facility in Wisconsin Rapids has received national recognition for its new high-efficiency, high intensity fluorescent lighting system, the company announced today.

Orion Energy Systems awarded the Miamisburg, Ohio-based papermaker with its Environmental Stewardship Award — an annual recognition presented to companies that achieve significant environmental benefits through the use of their products and systems.

The result of collaboration between the two companies, the new system will reduced energy usage by almost 2.3 million kilowatt-hours a year; the average household uses about 10,000 kilowatt-hours a year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

NewPage officials said the change will not only help the company become more energy efficient and cost effective but also contribute to a better work environment, calling the change a “win-win-win situation.”