At Helluva Container, sustainability is key to success. Our team has taken a bold step toward a more sustainable future by installing solar panels on the main office and our warehouse in Elk Point, SD, with the help of Artisun Solar.
As part of our ongoing mission to reduce environmental impact, our team has decided to embrace renewable energy to power its operations more efficiently. This investment not only supports Helluva’s long-term sustainability goals but also positions us as one of the few companies in South Dakota in eco-friendly manufacturing.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability has always been a key focus for Helluva, and the decision to transition to solar energy is a natural extension of that commitment. We specialize in repurposing Gaylord cardboard boxes for resale, ensuring that used boxes find a second life instead of heading to a landfill. Additionally, we sell large quantities of scrap cardboard to mills, where it is processed and turned back into paper and cardboard products, contributing to the circular economy. These efforts reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote a more sustainable packaging industry.
Solar panels were a clear next step for the Helluva team, reducing the carbon footprint at our corporate office and our Elk Point warehouse.
“This decision is a cornerstone of our long-term sustainability goals,” Helluva co-owner Kevin Connelly said. “It aligns perfectly with our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring that our operations are as eco-friendly as possible.”
Our Helluva team is excited to see what the future holds for us with this new addition.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Benefits
While the shift to solar energy comes with many benefits, there were some challenges to consider.
“We were concerned about the upfront costs and the potential disruption during installation,” Connelly explained.
However, the team tackled these hurdles with careful planning.
“We addressed these by conducting thorough research, securing financing options, and planning the installation during off-peak hours to minimize disruption,” said Connelly.
The company expects to see significant savings on energy bills while improving overall energy efficiency. The transition greatly reduces the company’s reliance on traditional power sources.
Partnering with the Right Experts
“Manufacturers are an excellent fit for solar,” Kreisel said. “We originally reached out to Helluva because we knew their industry could benefit, and it was great to learn that they already had sustainability goals in place.”
The installation process took a few weeks, but the overall journey—including permitting and approvals—spanned several months. Once the panels were installed and inspected at the office and warehouse, we were able to begin reaping the rewards of this investment.
“At one site, solar is covering roughly 97% of their energy usage, and at the other, it’s about 94%,” Kreisel shared. “It’s an incredible impact on their energy independence and sustainability efforts.”
Positive Impact on Employees, Community, and Industry
The response to the solar transition has been overwhelmingly positive. Employees take pride in working for a company that prioritizes sustainability, while the surrounding community appreciates the business’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. Customers, too, have responded positively, seeing this move as a reflection of our dedication to responsible manufacturing.
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