STRONGSVILLE, OH, APRIL 14, 2025
Rafter Equipment Corporation, a leading manufacturer of tube mills and roll-forming solutions, is taking a bold step toward sustainability with the installation of a 178 kW commercial solar energy system at its Strongsville, Ohio, facility. This investment, in partnership with Hello Sunray, an Ohio solar power company, reinforces Rafter’s ongoing commitment to energy efficiency, subsequent cost savings, and environmental responsibility.
By leveraging Hello Sunray’s expertise in turnkey commercial solar energy solutions, Rafter significantly reduced its reliance on traditional energy sources. Hello Sunray also collaborated with Lake Erie Electric to uphold the highest standards of reliability.
The new solar panel installation is expected to offset a substantial portion of the company’s energy usage, delivering a return on investment in under five years. Over the system’s lifetime, Rafter anticipates substantial savings in electricity costs, further strengthening its role as a sustainability leader for manufacturers nationwide.
“Not only are we reducing our carbon footprint, but we are also making a smart business decision,” said Tom Eaton, President of Rafter. “The financial benefits of solar energy were just as compelling as the environmental ones. The energy savings will allow us to reinvest in our company, expand our capabilities, and remain competitive in the industry.”
President of Hello Sunray, Anthony Manna, noted that Rafter’s solar energy investment is a “testament to our belief that sustainability and profitability go hand-in-hand.”
He also added: “We worked closely with Rafter to design a customized, turnkey commercial solar solution that optimizes energy use, reduces operational costs, and increases efficiency. It’s a great example of how companies can embrace renewable energy while improving their bottom line.”
Beyond its own solar initiative, Rafter continues to help customers optimize their manufacturing processes with cutting-edge, energy-conscious solutions. With this latest initiative, the company is proving that environmental responsibility and innovation can work towards greater business accomplishments, paving the way for a cleaner and more energy-efficient future in manufacturing.
Interest in more information?
For more information about Rafter’s sustainability initiatives or Hello Sunray’s turnkey solar solutions, see the full case study or contact Sandie O’Bruba at [email protected].