What do craft beer and cutting-edge sustainability have in common? At Bell’s Brewery in Michigan, the answer is clear: sunshine and smart design. As the days grow longer and summer vibes fill the air, Bell’s is proving that eco-friendly innovation can go hand-in-hand with industry success. With 111 Solatube Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs) and an expansive green roof, this iconic brewery is blending flavor, function, and forward-thinking in a way that deserves a toast.
In this article, we’ll explore how Bell’s Brewery is setting a new standard for commercial sustainability, what makes Solatube’s daylighting systems so effective, and why this smart combination is ideal for businesses looking to reduce costs and uplift their workforce.
Lighting the Way: Solatube’s Natural Advantage
Bell’s Brewery has seamlessly integrated 111 Solatube Daylighting Systems across its facility, including traditionally dark production areas with no access to windows. Here’s why this matters:
- Health & Productivity Boost: Research has long shown that natural daylight improves mood, supports circadian rhythms, and increases workplace productivity. At Bell’s, team members benefit from the uplifting effects of full-spectrum sunlight throughout their day.
- Energy Efficiency: Solatube devices use advanced optics to capture and redirect sunlight, eliminating the need for artificial lighting during peak hours. This results in significant energy savings without sacrificing visibility.
- Easy Integration: Whether in office spaces, brewing areas, or packaging rooms, Solatube’s compact, flexible design makes it ideal for retrofitting into existing commercial buildings.
Green Roofs: Brewing Better From the Top Down
Bell’s Brewery didn’t stop at daylighting. Their facility also features an extensive green roof, an increasingly popular solution in commercial architecture. The green roof complements Solatube systems and elevates the brewery’s sustainability profile.
Benefits of Green Roofs in Commercial Settings:
- Temperature Regulation: Vegetative roofing helps minimize heat absorption, keeping indoor spaces cooler in summer and reducing HVAC load.
- Stormwater Management: Green roofs absorb rainfall, helping to manage runoff and reduce strain on local drainage systems.
- Extended Roof Lifespan: Green roofs protect the building envelope from UV radiation and extreme temperature shifts, lowering long-term maintenance costs.
- Environmental Impact: By creating natural habitats for pollinators and birds, Bell’s Brewery contributes to local biodiversity.
The result? A facility that’s not only energy-efficient but also healthier, cooler, and more resilient against the elements.
A Case Study in Synergy: Why This Combo Works
Individually, Solatube daylighting and green roofs offer exceptional benefits. Together, they provide:
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: Less reliance on electric lighting and cooling leads to significant emissions savings.
- Improved Worker Experience: Employees enjoy better lighting and temperature conditions, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and retention.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The exposed TDDs and green spaces add a visual wow-factor that aligns with Bell’s brand as an environmentally conscious business.
This synergy exemplifies a new era of smart commercial design—one where environmental responsibility enhances operational excellence.
Practical Takeaways for Businesses
For other companies looking to replicate Bell’s success, here’s where to start:
- Evaluate Existing Roof Space: Could your building accommodate a green roof or Solatube devices?
- Start Small, Scale Smart: Solatube’s modular systems make it easy to install one unit or a hundred.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Work with architects and consultants who specialize in energy-efficient retrofits.
- Tap into Incentives: Local and federal programs may offer tax credits or rebates for sustainable upgrades.
Raise a Glass to a Brighter Future
Bell’s Brewery is more than a maker of exceptional beers—it’s a model of how sustainability and innovation can power business success. By pairing Solatube daylighting with green roofing, they’ve brewed up a solution that reduces energy costs, supports employee wellness, and protects the environment.
As we move toward a future that demands both efficiency and responsibility, Topps Solar and Energy is proud to support and promote projects like this. Whether you’re in food production, education, retail, or design, there’s a sunlit path forward.
Interested in bringing daylighting solutions to your facility? Contact us today for a consultation or visit www.toppssolarenergy.com.
