Old Dominion Site Goes Solar to Offset Most Energy Costs

Sept. 28, 2012
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. this week unveiled the third largest roof mounted solar panel photovoltaic (PV) system in the state of North Carolina.

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. this week unveiled the third largest roof mounted solar panel photovoltaic (PV) system in the state of North Carolina. The 1.8 megawatt system of 7,660 individual solar panels completely covers the warehouse’s 160,000-square-foot roof. The system, which has been operating since late December, can produce more than 2.2 million kilowatt hours of electricity a year—enough to offset more than 90 percent of the building’s annual energy costs (or power 200 houses annually).

“Old Dominion has made a promise to customers, shareholders and employees alike to enhance our corporate sustainability efforts,” said David Congdon, president and CEO of Old Dominion. “As we continue our rapid global expansion, it is increasingly important for us to be mindful of our company’s impact on the environment.”

In addition to the solar panel installation, Old Dominion has implemented a number of sustainable initiatives in its facilities over the past few years. It installed more energy-efficient bulbs in 80 percent of its lighting systems at company service centers nationwide and adopted technologies to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency for its fleet of more than 5,800 tractors. Last year, the company also opened its first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified service center, a facility located in Canton, Ohio.

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