Automation control company Festo has completed a solar energy project at its distribution center in Mason, Ohio. The Festo North American Regional Service Center will now meet 48% of its annual electricity demand through solar energy.

The system with an expected power generation of 1.4 megawatts will have 3929 solar panels covering 85180 square feet of roof. Its annual power generation is 2602 megawatt hours. The installation of solar panels began in November 2024 and was completed in May of this year. Kokosis Solar is the general contractor for this project. The solar panels are installed on the roofs of two of the three connected buildings and on the carport at the entrance. Eight solar electric vehicle charging stations are a major feature of this project.

The Festo Regional Service Center was established in 2015 and has been expanded multiple times since then, serving as the North American distribution center for Festo's global automation products. The center has 350 employees and is also responsible for assembling customized orders and creating unique products for North American customers. Festo Didactic, the learning department of Festo, has established a practical system for training the next generation of manufacturing and processing technicians through community colleges.

Mason Mayor Diana Nielsen commented, "The solar project at Festo Regional Service Center is not only energy-efficient, but also a model of resilience and forward thinking, reflecting the city's economic and environmental goals. It aligns with Mason City's efforts to help local businesses invest in sustainable development