Toray Plastics to build a new cogeneration power facility

Toray Plastics (America), Inc. (North Kingstown, R.I.; www.torayfilms.com), a United States manufacturer of precision-performance polyester, polypropylene, metallized, and bio-based films, will begin construction on a second cogeneration system at its 70-acre North Kingstown, R.I. campus. Toray already operates a cogeneration system that supplies continuous power to its Lumirror polyester film division, which sustains manufacturing production even during severe weather events, such as Hurricane Sandy, and enables the company to provide uninterrupted customer service. The new system, which is expected to be operational by March 2014, will be dedicated to powering production for the Torayfan polypropylene film division and other sites around the property. It will reduce Toray’s demand on the supply of electricity to nearby Rhode Island communities, particularly during peak periods in the summer months. In addition, the company estimates that the new system, like the current unit, will eliminate approximately 12,500 tons of CO₂ per year, for a total reduction of 25,000 tons. Toray’s sustainability initiative, begun in 2004, includes the use of solar power, zero landfill, and extensive recycling, among other features. Toray has earmarked $22.7 million for the development of the new system, including funds from National Grid’s Energy Efficiency Program, developed in collaboration with the state of Rhode Island.. Toray calculates that the project will generate 150,000 hours of construction labor. This major investment follows Toray’s recent US$15 million investment in new coating equipment.