Alliance Automation, a leader in robotics and material handling systems based in Van Wert, Ohio, recently invested in a 900-panel solar energy system purchased from Superior Energy Solutions and professionally installed by AEP Ohio. This project demonstrates how industrial operations can take control of rising energy costs without compromising performance or reliability.
With a constant demand for power to operate robotics, grinders, and other heavy-duty equipment, Alliance relied on Superior Energy Solutions to provide the solar system, while AEP Ohio managed the installation and grid integration. The results are already exceeding expectations.
Project Highlights
- System Size: 495 kW
- Panel Count: 900 × Phono Solar 550W
- Arrays: 9
- Inverters: 9
- Mounting: K2 Standing Seam Clamps (non-penetrating, rated for 140 mph winds)
- Utility: AEP Ohio
- System Type: Grid-tied commercial solar
From Planning to Power: The Installation Process
The project began in September of 2024 with system design, followed by permitting with the state of Ohio. Commercial solar installations of this scale require multiple layers of approval before construction can begin.
Once permits were secured, the installation kicked off in mid-July of 2025, benefiting from ideal summer weather. The system was fully installed in 7 to 8 weeks, spanning nine rooftop arrays that required no roof penetration thanks to a clamp-based mounting system.
Supporting Real Industrial Load
Unlike smaller systems powering office lighting or HVAC, this solar array was designed to support high-load operations. Alliance’s energy use includes advanced robotics, grinders, and automation equipment—requiring a system that could deliver consistent, dependable output.
The electricity produced by the 900 solar panels flows into a series of inverters, converting it into usable power for the facility. When solar generation exceeds real-time demand, the excess flows back to the grid, helping offset their bill with AEP Ohio.
Results Already Paying Off
The installation is already delivering noticeable savings on utility bills and improving Alliance’s ability to forecast long-term energy costs. With prices from the grid continuing to fluctuate, locking in a portion of their electricity through solar provides not only financial savings but also strategic stability.
And it’s just the beginning—Alliance is now planning to add solar to additional buildings after seeing the value this system brings to their operations.
A Smart Move for Industrial Facilities
More manufacturers and commercial property owners are turning to solar to take control of their energy future. The benefits go far beyond cost savings:
- More predictable utility expenses
- Fewer surprises from rate increases
- Immediate return on investment
- Strong long-term ROI
If you operate a facility with heavy power usage, solar is more than just a sustainability initiative—it’s a smart business decision.
Thinking About Going Solar?
This 900-panel project proves that solar works for industrial applications—and that you don’t have to sacrifice reliability to save money.
If you’re exploring solar for your facility, we can walk you through the process: site evaluation, permitting, design, installation, and grid integration.
Take the first step. Reach out today and see what solar can do for your business.
