TerraGen Solar – Improving Day to Day Manufacturing Processes
Nestled in the heart of Alliston, Ontario, TerraGen Solar manufactures a wide range of commercial racking solutions for all roof types. Since 2009, the family owned business has evolved from solar installations, to engineering and design of their own racking system.
SERVICES AND OUTLOOK
Their comprehensive services encompass not only innovative structural design layouts and engineering, but also dedicated support to their customers, predominantly comprising of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) companies.
Committed to providing unwavering support, TerraGen stands ready to assist clients throughout the installation process, addressing any obstacles they face. For TerraGen, efficiency isn’t just a target, but a guiding principle ingrained in their culture.
INCORPORATING TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS
The company proudly participated in CME’s Technology Investment Program, funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Through this initiative, TerraGen strategically made substantial investments aimed at optimizing their manufacturing processes and enhancing the quality of their products.
One strategy included transitioning from drilling to punching materials. This seemingly small change not only bolstered daily production volumes but also enabled TerraGen to bring previously outsourced components in-house, resulting in a significant labour cost savings per unit of up to 50% on certain products.
The incorporation of warehouse displays and tablets relay live project information, ensuring that their workforce remains agile and responsive to dynamic challenges faced daily. This transition has not only improved labour times per project with real-time information flow, but brings them one step closer to full scale automation.
With increased production capabilities through reduced labour times, health and safety is of top priority to TerraGen. A wet collection vacuum designed for extracting debris from cutting aluminum has been implemented, which filters contaminants through water, exhausting cleaner air to its surroundings.
FINANCIAL IMPACT AND FUTURE
The impact of TerraGen’s investment is tangible, with month-to-month comparisons revealing impressive increases in part creation, onboarding new components which can now be fabricated inhouse, real-time information flow, and workforce safety. It is estimated that TerraGen could see an annual savings of $41,000 across all initiatives. With an enhanced capacity and a focus on custom projects, TerraGen is poised for continued growth and expansion.
We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
FedDev Ontario is the Government of Canada’s economic development organization for Southern Ontario. FedDev generates jobs and economic growth through programs and services, and financial support. Together with businesses and community partners, FedDev works to build a stronger Southern Ontario.