Client: Fuserashi International Technology, Inc. (FIT)

Industry: Manufacturing

Sustainability Solution(s) Implemented: LED Lighting

Results after finished install:

• 40,000 square foot building expansion with total building LED lighting upgrade

• Annual energy cost reduction of 57.3% compared to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001/2007

• Immediate tax deduction of $365,983

Since 1996, Fuserashi International Technology, Inc. (FIT) has been manufacturing safe and reliable parts for the automotive industry at their facility in Valley City, Ohio. The company has always valued quality over quantity, and brings this approach to every aspect of their operations, including building renovations and expansions. FIT completed one of these quality expansions in 2016 when they grew their footprint with a 40,000 square foot addition—complete with energy efficient building materials and LED lights.

When it comes to saving money and energy, installing LED lighting can be a great place to start. It’s a simple process—LED lights use less power than common incandescent, fluorescent, and metal halides—switch out your existing tubes for LEDs and immediately start saving on your electricity bill. But sometimes that is easier said than done. While the savings can be substantial, lighting projects still require upfront capital which can be a hurdle to implementation.

With most utility rebates gone, the 179D Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency Tax Deduction is a great way to effectively reduce the upfront cost of any efficiency project—including lighting. This incentive acts as an accelerated depreciation towards the overall cost of the project, with potential deductions worth up to $5 per square foot. Viridi helped manage this incentive for FIT from start to finish; first collecting the information to prequalify the project, then providing a free estimate for the total project worth, complete with a comprehensive tax package for the company to submit at tax time.

FIT’s 40,000 square foot addition included a production department expansion, an air compressor room, and new warehouse space. The entire space was fit with LED lights, efficient infrared heaters, and additional insulation. Viridi’s Energy Engineers managed the 179D process for FIT, making capturing this tax deduction simple and seamless. The total project qualified for a $365,983 tax deduction. Overall, the building addition saved FIT over 57% on energy costs compared to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2001/2007.

If you’re thinking of completing an energy efficiency project or expanding your building, Viridi can assist you in finding and capturing every extra incentive available. Going green or adding to your business shouldn’t mean breaking the bank. And with Viridi’s financing and funding programs, it doesn’t!

“The tax savings that we received from the project allowed us to reinvest those dollars back into our company and to our associates. With Viridi’s help, claiming the tax deduction was a very simple and painless process.”

– Hal Wagoner, President & COO