The Milwaukee Brewing Company will install a solar hot water system and energy-efficiency upgrades at its brewing facility, in Milwaukee’s Walkers Point neighborhood, in early 2013, reducing energy costs by 27 percent and demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainable brewing practices. The installation will include 28 solar panels to pre-heat water used in the brewing process.

The installation came together through a partnership led by Milwaukee Shines, the city of Milwaukee’s solar program, and included grants from Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy and Me2, the city of Milwaukee’s energy efficiency program.

Me2 requires that at least 40 percent of the labor hours go to city residents that have been historically underemployed or unemployed. “Milwaukee is demonstrating that investing in clean energy and energy efficiency is not only good for the bottom line, but puts our citizens back to work,” says Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.

“These innovative City of Milwaukee energy programs are designed to help business owners and residents see an immediate reduction in their energy bills, while creating local jobs and a better environment for our community,” comments Amy Heart, City of Milwaukee’s Solar Program Manager.

“The city’s energy programs were a great asset to help us save energy and increase our competitiveness,” says Jim McCabe, owner and founder of Milwaukee Brewing Company. “We hope our installation encourages others to make the investment, as well.”

The Milwaukee Brewing Company is located at 613 S. 2nd St., Milwaukee. For more information, visit MKEBrewing.com. For more information about Milwaukee’s energy programs, email [email protected], or visit MilwaukeeShines.com and SmartEnergyPays.com.