Solar Rotational Molding is the only solar energy application which is competitive with a traditional manufacturing process, without subsidies. Because SRM’s initial investment costs AND operating costs are lower than traditional rotational molding, it does not require subsidies or other government incentives to compete. SRM is market-ready sustainable manufacturing.
There are several developed-world markets which are a natural fit to SRM:
Commodity Part Molding
Water tanks, fuel tanks, and many other products with high unit requirements and fixed designs are are manufactured by many competing ‘commodity molders’. These molders compete on very fine margins. A Solar Rotational Molder has a significant cost advantage due to zero energy costs (typically 10% of the cost of the finished part). An investment in SRM has better IRR and ROI than an investment in a similar-capacity traditional molding system. Applying LightManufacturing’s heliostat CSP ( concentrated solar power) systems to molding mean ongoing energy costs are a thing of the past.
LEED / ‘Green’ Building Components
SRM generates zero greenhouse gasses, and can be used to mold architectural components (water storage, decorative features, structural elements, more) out of new or recycled plastics. By specifying SRM-produced parts, an architect or developer can earn LEED credits and qualify for other ‘green’-incentivized building programs.
Incentivized Markets
SRM is competitive with traditional molding without incentives. For markets that DO have incentives – Carbon-emissions pricing, legislated sustainable content, or other, SRM has an extreme advantage. Local, Regional, or National entities have created a number of local markets in which SRM can grow rapidly. Avoid carbon-taxes or generate carbon credits by converting to SRM – market ready sustainable manufacturing.
Sustainable / ‘Green’ Consumer Products
Economics aside, some consumers are highly motived to purchase sustainably-produced products, even at a price premium. A larger group of consumer are motivated to purchase sustainably-produced products if available at a similar price to ordinary products. SRM provides a way for consumerproduct makers to bring their existing products to the expanding ‘green’ market, with revenue and brand-identity benefits.
Markets in which sustainable manufacturing has strong impact include: boating (kayaking, canoeing, small craft), home products (outdoor furniture, garden products), industrial processes, maintenance, and many more.