Worksman Cycles (USA’s Oldest) Get a Touch of Sun
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 03.10.08
If, since 1898 you've been the self-proclaimed “leader in low-cost, fuel-free personnel carrying and material handling vehicles,” you might wonder what else can be done do to make the world a little bit better. For Worksman Cycles the oldest bicycle manufacturer in the U.S., the only place left to go was up. Up on their roof that is.
Teaming up with the New York’s RenewableNY program, they engaged with Solar Energy Systems to install 15.12 kW of photovolatics above their 50 people factory in Queens.This solar system should generate over 600,000 kilowatt-hours over its 40-year expected lifetime and reduce Worksman's monthly electricity bill by more than 20%. The bike maker has “also replaced every light fixture in the 100,000-square foot facility with high efficiency lighting.”
Costs were softened by incentives from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).
The Energy Daily reports Wayne Sosin, President of Worksman Cycles as saying, "This project is tremendously exciting for us. What could be greener than a bicycle made with solar energy? We're cutting our operating costs and increasing our marketability as an environmentally responsible business."
Worksman make all manner of self powered two and three wheelers, including vending cycles, heavy duty industrial bikes, once tagged the "Hum-vee of Bicycles", as well as pure recreational bikes, and it’s pleasing to note they also produce one of our faves, folding bikes. ::Worksman Cycles, via Energy Daily.
These cycles are the best. Last you a lifetime.