Midwest Metal Products has distinguished itself within the metal casting industry through innovative technologies and a commitment to sustainability. Among the notable achievements, MMP is recognized as the first commercial foundry in North America fully powered by solar energy, including its energy-intensive melting operations.
Since its establishment in the 1950s, the MMP site has undergone significant transformation. Initially operating as a green-sand gray iron foundry, it expanded in the 1980s to integrate heat-treating capabilities. By 1991, the foundry introduced air-set molding and began producing both steel and iron. Today, MMP employs induction melting technology with the production of castings capable of reaching up to 1,800 lbs. for irons and 1,100 lbs. for steels.
Solar-Powered Operations
A distinguishing feature of MMP is our commitment to renewable energy. In 2015, the foundry joined the Minnesota Community Solar Garden (MCSG) initiative, a cooperative program that facilitates the installation of dense photovoltaic (PV) solar panel arrays. These arrays supply power to the regional energy grid, with participants receiving credits for the electricity generated. By mid-2016, MMP had subscribed to four solar gardens, covering over 100% of its energy requirements based on historical consumption data.
Each solar garden can generate 1 MW of power, requiring approximately 2.5 acres of land. MMP’s gardens, operated by BHE Renewables, became operational in February 2018. The solar energy initiative has reduced the foundry’s energy costs, with projected annual savings of about 1 months worth of electrical cost per year. The foundry has even sold excess power back to the grid, though this is expected to diminish as production scales up.
Minnesota’s MCSG initiative has positioned the state as a leader in renewable energy adoption, with 58 solar garden projects completed as of December 2017 and more in development. These gardens are designed to supplement traditional power sources and align with Minnesota’s mandate for electrical providers to derive at least 1.5% of their supply from solar energy.
MMP’s participation in this program reflects both an environmentally responsible business strategy and a forward-thinking approach to sustainable manufacturing. By leveraging renewable energy, the foundry aligns its operations with broader environmental goals while maintaining operational efficiency.
In conclusion, Midwest Metal Products exemplifies the integration of advanced technology and sustainability within the metal casting industry. Through innovative practices, coupled with a commitment to renewable energy, MMP positions itself as a model for other foundries seeking to enhance their capabilities while minimizing their environmental impact.