Lights Out for Roanoke

Earth Hour was celebrated around the world on March 29.  Millions of people joined the movement for a more environmentally-friendly society by switching off all lights and unplugging their appliances for one hour.  However, one company has decided to take Earth Hour one step further.  Roanoke Cement Company’s (a subsidiary of Titan America) Troutville, Virginia plant decided to switch off the lights on its four-hundred foot, pre-heater tower until further notice.

The move came as part of Titan’s aggressive plan to reduce energy consumption and by its participation in the Energy Star program.  To qualify for the Star, a company must score in the top 25% according to the EPA’s National Energy Performance Rating System.  Titan America has consistently been awarded the Energy Star every year since 2007 and plans on continuing the trend.  Troutville plant manager Kevin Baird told PR Newswire, “The easiest way to save power is to not use it. In times of economic downturn, we must look to the low-hanging fruit, like automation and optimization, for efficiencies.”

Throughout Botetourt County (where the plant is located), Titan’s move for shutting the lights off has been welcomed warmly by the residents.  For them, the night is darker and more stars than ever are shining through.  Previously over 100 lights illuminated the tower, but now only two small red lights remain to alert low-flying aircraft of the tower’s presence.  Titan has stepped up and switched off in order to lead the way to a more energy efficient future.