Efficiency Vermont provides technical assistance to save Kaytec 290,000 kWh

A better quality of light, an increased ability to accomplish tasks, and a reduction in energy use are just some of the benefits resulting from energy-efficiency improvements made by Kaytec, a Richford-based manufacturer that produces insulated vinyl siding.
Following an energy audit, Kaytec decided to replace more than 250 high-bay and T12 fluorescent lights with energy-efficient high-performance T8 (HPT8) lamps. Compared to older T12 lighting, HPT8 light fixtures save up to 50% percent in energy, last up to twice as long, and provide better quality light. The company also installed motion detectors that automatically turn off lights in unoccupied areas of the building.
Kaytec hired a full-time electrician to make all of its energy-efficiency upgrades, and called in Efficiency Vermont to provide technical assistance.
‘We used to climb ladders with flashlights when we were doing inventory,’ said Shayne Whittemore, plant manager and human resources manager at Kaytec. ‘Now, the inventory process is much safer, faster, and more accurate. Plus, when the team goes into the break room, the manufacturing floor goes dark thanks to the motion detectors. The darkness reminds me that we’re saving energy and money every day.’
‘The older metal halide fixtures used to take 10 minutes just to warm up, and the quality of light doesn’t compare to what Kaytec has now,’ noted Matt Dooley, a key account manager at Efficiency Vermont. ‘Efficiency Vermont saves energy for Vermont businesses, but it’s always satisfying when our work contributes to creating a better work environment.’
Kaytec expects to save more than 290,000 kWh per year, which translates to an annual cost savings of almost $32,000. The company is projected to reduce its energy use by approximately 10 percent.
Kaytec employs 60 people at its Richford plant. A subsidiary of Montreal-based Kaycan, the insulated vinyl siding manufacturer has four other facilities in the United States and more in Canada.
‘Based on the positive experience we’ve had in Vermont, saving energy and money, we’re excited to look into energy-efficiency improvements at our other plants around the country,’ said Whittemore.
For a limited time, Efficiency Vermont is offering businesses significantly enhanced rebates for upgrading their old T12 fluorescent and HID high-bay lighting systems to more efficient equipment through its newLIGHT program. The rebates can cover up to 50% of the equipment cost or more. The newLIGHT program was created to help Vermont businesses prepare for new federal legislation that will phase out manufacturing of most T12 fluorescent lamps for sale in the U.S. after July 14, 2012.
T12 fluorescent lamps are common in many businesses throughout Vermont. They are usually four- or eight-foot long tubes mounted horizontally in a ceiling fixture and are always 1.5 inches in diameter.
Business owners interested in newLIGHT can work with a contractor, distributor, or other lighting professional to determine if their proposed efficiency upgrades qualify for the increased rebates. Visit www.efficiencyvermont.com/newLIGHT for more information. Projects must be completed by December 1, 2011.
Efficiency Vermont was created by the Vermont Legislature and the Vermont Public Service Board to help all Vermonters reduce energy costs, strengthen the economy, and protect Vermont's environment. Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC) operates Efficiency Vermont under an appointment by the Vermont Public Service Board. VEIC is a Vermont-based nonprofit organization founded in 1986. For more information, contact Efficiency Vermont at 888-921-5990 or visit www.efficiencyvermont.com.