Mercantile Development, Inc. Goes Green with Rooftop Solar Project


Solar System Highlights Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

SHELTON, Connecticut- Mercantile Development, Inc. (MDI), a leading manufacturer of industrial wipers, today announced the completion of a large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) project which was installed on the roof of MDI's production facility in Shelton, Connecticut. MDI partnered on the project with EnterSolar, a leading provider of commercial solar systems to corporate customers.

"MDI is excited to further strengthen our corporate sustainability commitment with the addition of our new solar system," commented Alan Fankhanel, President & CEO of MDI, "going forward, we expect that over 75% of our annual electricity needs will now be provided by the clean energy produced from MDI's rooftop solar system".

The 325.5 kilowatt (kW) solar system consists of over 1,300 individual solar panels, a central commercial inverter, and a state-of-the-art data acquisition system. The rooftop system is expected to produce over 400,000 kilowatt hours per year, which is roughly equivalent to the energy needed to power 50 residential homes, or to conserve over 32,000 gallons of gasoline each year.

The MDI solar project was one of the first projects to utilize the new Connecticut ZREC incentive program. "In addition to the environmental benefits associated with the system, the ZREC program and the available federal energy incentives made going solar a sound corporate capital investment", said Ken Keefe, MDI's Corporate Controller.

EnterSolar developed the MDI project from their New York City and Hartford offices. "We are excited to have partnered with MDI on this important project," said Paul Ahern, President of EnterSolar, "this installation showcases the significant environmental and financial benefits that solar can provide to Connecticut businesses." Installation services were provided by New Generation Energy and Environment.

About MDI

MDI is a specialty converter of quality non-woven industrial wiping products with corporate headquarters in Shelton, Connecticut. For over 50 years, MDI has strived for a simple goal - deliver outstanding products, value and service via quality-minded distributors. Additional information about MDI is available at www.mdiwipers.com.

About EnterSolar

EnterSolar is a leading provider of commercial solar photovoltaic systems to the business market. The Company focuses on the specific and demanding needs of the Corporate customer, delivering compelling long-term Return on Investment ("ROI") results for its clients. Additional information about EnterSolar is available at www.entersolar.com.

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