In an effort to reduce energy consumption costs, as well as be environmentally friendly; businesses are continually investing in “green” measures.  While the initial undertakings might cost a substantial amount, the amount will be recouped and the favorable light shed on the company from the public is also highly favorable for companies like the Verso Paper Corporation, which is based out of Memphis Tennessee, but has a facility locally here in Michigan.

Verso Paper just finished up their $45M renewable energy project at their facility in Quinnesec, Michigan.  The organization is a pulp and paper mill, and underwent some substantial upgrades to the “existing combination boiler, a new biomass handling system, and a new turbine generator.”  The project was able to allow the plant to produce an additional 28 megawatts of energy via green measures on-site which on a yearly basis equates to the same as 18,000 homes energy consumption for that same year.  This measure is drastically reducing their carbon footprint.

95% on-site Electricity Generation

Mark Daniel who is the company’s Vice President of Energy and Technology said, “In addition to reducing our carbon footprint, these improvements will improve boiler combustion and efficiency and will markedly reduce the mill’s reliance on electricity produced from fossil fuels.”

The project and upgrades to the boiler system now allow the Michigan plant to operate on 95% on-site electricity generation, using renewable, carbon-neutral, wood-based biofuel; which is a big component to reducing the companies footprint as well as affecting the reduction of energy consumption from traditional electric means.

Verso Paper, which announced the project’s completion via a press release, also shared the fact that they will continue to use “Black Liquor” which is a byproduct of their wood pulping process.  The byproduct is not discarded but rather used in the mill’s boiler system.

Verso Paper Corporation is well known for their paper products being used in magazines, catalogs, brochures, snail mail advertisements, and other media and marketing applications.  The investment towards a greener future for the mill means that the company is doing well and is focusing on long-term energy strategies for sustainability in the future; something that residents can truly appreciate.