A brighter future starts at the top. In partnership with Solar One, a leader in large-scale commercial solar solutions, Ring Container Technologies has installed a cutting-edge rooftop solar energy system at its Rockford, Illinois plant – transforming unused roof space into renewable power and measurable sustainability progress.
Why Did We Install a Solar Energy System at Our Rockford Plant?
At Ring Container Technologies, sustainability is how we operate. The Rockford solar project marks a major step forward in our long-term commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and improve energy efficiency. This project is just one of the ways we're leading by example across the consumer goods packaging industry.
This installation transforms rooftop space into a clean energy source that will power plant operations and reduce environmental impact.
“This project reflects Ring's belief that sustainability is built into how we operate every day. The Rockford solar installation represents a smart, forward-looking investment that reduces emissions, increases efficiency, and reinforces our long-term reliability as a manufacturer.”
Brian Smith
Ring Container Technologies President and CEO
Annual Energy Output: The solar energy system produces 1.2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Avoided: Estimated 498,600 kg of CO2e, of carbon dioxide, equivalent to removing 116 gasoline-powered cars from the road annually.
Leading the Way in Innovative Sustainability
For over 50 years, Ring has been driving innovation in packaging. Now, we're expanding that leadership into energy management by combining operational insight with a commitment to innovative sustainability. The Rockford solar initiative supports our company-wide sustainability strategy and complements the programs that define our environmental responsibility, including:
- EcoVadis Platinum Rating: Recognizing continuous improvement in environmental and ethical performance.
- Partnerships with AMERIPEN, APR, and Operation Clean Sweep: Supporting recycling and circular economy goals.
- Ongoing Efficiency Efforts: Including change to weight optimization, material reduction, and sustainable sourcing.
Together, these efforts reflect Ring's belief that business and sustainability go hand in hand.
The Bigger Picture
The Rockford installation represents an investment in exploring how Ring operations can integrate solar energy. This initiative acts as a pilot for future renewable‑energy projects across the company, laying the groundwork for continued progress throughout our operations
Learn more about our companywide sustainability goals:
EXPLORE RING'S SUSTAINABILITY REPORT DISCOVER OUR SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES
About Ring Container Technologies
Ring Container Technologies is one of North America's largest consumer goods packaging manufacturers, trusted by global brands for affordable reliability, innovation, and sustainability. For decades, we've built packaging that protects products, brands, and today, we're powering that purpose with renewable energy.
About Solar One
Solar One designs and installs large-scale solar energy systems that empower businesses to reduce costs and operate sustainably. With expertise in commercial and industrial solar solutions, Solar One delivers performance-engineered systems that begin generating savings from day one.
Why Did We Install a Solar Energy System at Our Rockford Plant?
At Ring Container Technologies, we focus on practical improvements that strengthen our operations as a manufacturer. The Rockford solar project represents a significant step in our ongoing effort to reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency, and support the long‑term reliability of our facilities.
This project reflects our commitment to investing in systems that make our operations stronger and more efficient. The result is a stronger, more resilient plant — one that’s equipped to reliably support our customers’ needs today and ready for the opportunities ahead.
How much energy does the Rockford solar array generate?
The solar energy system produces 1.2 million kilowatt-hours annually, replacing a part of the plant's total energy use with clean solar energy.
Is this part of Ring's sustainable packaging strategy?
Yes — this solar energy system complements our broader sustainable packaging strategy, which includes lightweighting, material reduction, and sustainable sourcing for consumer goods packaging.
