ForeFront Power Installs 630-kW Solar Array at Mexican Automotive Parts Plant
A global automobile equipment manufacturer which makes seating and interior components for various models of cars has decarbonized some of its operations with rooftop and carport solar installed at its plant in Mexico.
Yanfeng Seating Mexico and renewable energy developer ForeFront Power partnered to install a 630-kW direct-current solar energy system at the facility in San Luis Potosi. It will include rooftop and carport solar arrays ample enough to generate more than 1.1 million kWh of carbon-free power per year and offset 43% of the facility’s electrical consumption.
The project was developed at no upfront cost to Yanfeng through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with ForeFront Power. Under the terms of the PPA, ForeFront Power developed, owned, and will continue to maintain the system for the duration of the 10-year agreement.
“Satisfying the sustainability goals of our customers is a top priority,” said Du Hai, Regional Operations Manager at Yanfeng, in a statement. “Through our partnership with ForeFront Power and our investment in renewable energy, we are not only meeting those goals — we’re raising the bar for sustainability across Mexico's automotive supply chain.”
The system will reduce the facility’s carbon footprint and support customer-driven sustainability goals with 100% of the generated electricity used during peak daytime hours.
Yanfeng will benefit from a fixed, lower rate than the utility for electricity and is projected to save over $1.4 million in energy costs over the next decade.
The solar energy system will offset approximately 495 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to taking more than 215 diesel-fueled cars off the road or planting around 23,500 trees each year. The solar parking canopy provides shade for Yanfeng Seating plant staff and visitors.
Yanfeng’s San Luis Potosi facility produces door panels for automotive clients like BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen. The decision to pursue solar energy was driven by Yanfeng’s environmental responsibility and its customers’ expectations for renewable energy sourcing, as set by BMW and other partners.