Sustainable Solutions Contribute to More Than Efficient Processes
This article appeared in the August 2025 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.
Words like “renewable energy, solar, energy efficiency, sustainability integration” are not just buzzwords.
Today’s manufacturers are leading the way by integrating these sustainability initiatives into their operations, embedding a stakeholder engagement approach with their employees and communities. Many manufacturing businesses have made it their mission to incorporate sustainability practices into their everyday processes while reducing their environmental footprints — whether through solar panel installation, energy conservation and efficiency projects, water stewardship, waste management or recycling initiatives within their facilities.
“Manufacturers recognize that reducing your carbon footprint is not only beneficial for the environment, but it also enhances your business’s reputation as a leader in sustainability — something that’s important to your customers and suppliers,” says Jeff Mayes, Executive Director at Consumers Energy — the state’s second-largest utility company serving over 235,000 commercial customers.
“We see it every day,” he continues. “Businesses that proactively manage their energy consumption, embrace efficiency and explore cleaner energy sources are not only reducing their energy costs but are improving safety, reducing maintenance costs and increasing process efficiency. Beyond the operational benefits, they’re also enhancing their brand reputation, attracting conscientious customers and future-proofing their operations as they grow.”
Solar Arrays as Renewable Energy
The use of renewable energy, such as solar panels has been common in warmer-climate states for decades but the implementation of solar energy solutions is steadily increasing in Michigan over the past few years.
“We’re working together with Michigan manufacturers who are making the commitment to strategic energy management, and we’re making a meaningful impact in building a more sustainable and prosperous future for the state of Michigan,” Mayes says.
In 2024, Nexteer Automotive and Amrize each installed large-scale solar fields on their properties. These projects demonstrate how renewable energy can support and enhance sustainable business operations.
In partnership with NorthStar Clean Energy, Nexteer Automotive — a global Tier 1 auto supplier that specializes in motion control solutions such as power steering, driveline systems, brake-by-wire and software — broke ground on a 25-acre solar field in August 2023 at its site in Saginaw, and it became fully operational in May 2024. With 17,000-plus solar panels, the field generates enough renewable energy to help to mitigate approximately 5,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tC02e).
“At Nexteer, our company vision to be a leader accelerating mobility to be safe, green and exciting is deeply embedded in how we innovate and operate around the globe. The Saginaw solar project exemplifies how our cross-functional colleagues apply a “Think Global, Act Local” approach to collaborate and operationalize sustainability in today’s manufacturing,” explains Virginia Li, Executive Director of Sustainability & ESG and Secretary of the Global Strategy Council at Nexteer Automotive.
A global leader in building materials with a focus on innovative solutions, Amrize has had similar experiences with solar power. Formerly known as Holcim, Amrize has installed a 90-acre solar field at its Alpena Cement Plant. The solar array is expected to generate 35,000 MWh of clean power per year.
Winner of the MMA’s first-ever Manufacturing Sustainability Award in 2024, the business had been producing 70 percent of its energy on site since the 1970s. With the addition of the solar field, 90 percent of its electrical energy now comes without an environmental footprint.
Weaving Sustainability Into Operations and Company Culture
The adoption of sustainability initiatives is often led by change agents with the goal of weaving sustainability into culture, operations and the company’s long-term planning.
“Embedding sustainability into corporate culture calls for engagement at all levels,” says Li. “For example, our Steering Committee promotes a strong sustainability culture from the top down, supported by our cross-functional work groups to drive progress across key initiatives, such as the Saginaw solar project.”
Mayes from Consumers Energy, whose MMA membership dates back to 1914, wholeheartedly agrees that in today’s dynamic economy, energy is recognized even more as a strategic asset that needs to be carefully planned for and managed.
“Smart energy management and a clear path toward decarbonization are no longer just nice-to-haves — they are powerful drivers of competitive advantage across every sector,” says Mayes, adding that Energy Solutions Managers at Consumers Energy work closely with Michigan manufacturers to understand specific challenges and goals when it comes to energy usage.
Global Initiatives for Sustainability
Nexteer has been recognized on numerous levels for its sustainability efforts, for example, listed on Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024, as well as for its dedication to the community and industry innovation.
“Driving operational excellence means creating systems that are not only efficient, but also empowering for our people,” says Jill Dralle, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Nexteer’s U.S. Division and the recipient of MMA’s 2024 Manufacturing Woman of the Year award.
“I’m proud to lead initiatives that enhance performance across our operations while also championing a culture of inclusion and growth. By supporting and developing future leaders, we’re shaping a stronger, more connected industry.”
Dedicated programs at manufacturing businesses can enhance sustainability efforts, as having a foundational structure ensures that plans are made, implemented and practiced.
In 2024, Nexteer’s global operation teams implemented energy efficiency projects such as lighting upgrades, cooling tower and heat pump improvements and compressed air system enhancements. Given the high electricity consumption of compressed air, these projects prioritized reducing usage, repairing leaks, and replacing outdated units with energy-efficient models.
Environmental protection efforts are not only about reducing consequences, but also about stimulating progress, which manufacturers have been focusing on in recent years. Consumers Energy, for example, has protected or restored 6,000 acres of land for invasive special control and habitat protection.
Manufacturers who continue to explore and share best practices to improve energy usage can implement solutions and discover new possibilities for sustainability to unlock business value. The manufacturing industry has made significant strides in innovation, and by aligning sustainability with operational excellence, it is well-positioned to future-proof operations and build long-term resilience.
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