Project to Create 170 Jobs, Doubling Company’s Workforce
MANITOWOC – Governor Jim Doyle today announced $854,500 in Community Development Zone tax credits for Orion Energy Systems, Inc. to help the company expand and create new jobs in the area. Orion Energy Systems will use the funds to further expand its manufacturing capacity and construct and equip new headquarters, which will encompass a technology management, demonstration and training center near its current facility in Manitowoc. The project is expected to create 170 jobs and retain 115 jobs. Total project investment is $13 million.
“Energy efficient lighting systems are a great way to conserve energy and decrease facility costs,” Governor Doyle said. “I am pleased that we could assist Orion Energy Systems with this project will help the company to double its current number of employees. This expansion is not only good for Manitowoc, but it will also allow more energy-saving products to reach the market.”
“We are grateful to Governor Doyle and the Wisconsin Department of Commerce,” said Neal Verfuerth, Orion president and chief executive officer. “The Community Development Zone program demonstrates Wisconsin’s ongoing commitment to improving the quality and quantity of employment opportunities in Wisconsin communities, and will further position Orion to aggressively grow our business, provide quality jobs, and promote energy efficiency.”
Orion Energy Systems is a leading power technology enterprise that designs, manufactures and implements energy management systems, consisting primarily of high-performance, energy-efficient lighting systems, controls and related services for commercial and industrial customers. Orion has deployed its energy management systems in 3,655 facilities across North America. Since 2001, Orion technology has displaced more than 334 megawatts, saving customers more than $351 million and reducing indirect carbon dioxide emissions by 4.4 million tons.
For more information on Department of Commerce programs and services, contact the Commerce area development manager. Contact information for Area Development Managers can be found at http://www.commerce.wi.gov/BD/BD-AreaDevManagers.html
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