Madison Keller (121 posts)
From Outdated to Efficient: TRC Takes the Spotlight in LM&M’s 70th Anniversary Edition
Upgrading your lighting this year? Download the 2023 Xcel Energy LED Rebate Guide. Xcel Energy offers rebates that can help reduce the cost of your next lighting project.
September 25, 2023
App-Based Color-Tuning Lights Tutorial [Video]
Check out this step by step tutorial on how to use the app-based wall controls for the Casambi color-tuning lighting system that Retrofit Lighting & Design installed in a school district.
July 12, 20232023 Xcel Energy Rebates in Minnesota
Upgrading your lighting this year? Download the 2023 Xcel Energy LED Rebate Guide. Xcel Energy offers rebates that can help reduce the cost of your next lighting project.
April 3, 2023
Xcel Energy 2023 Energy Efficient Partner Award
We are proud to announce that The Retrofit Companies, Inc. is a recipient of the Xcel Energy’s 2023 Energy Efficient Partner Award!
March 14, 2023
EV FAQ’s – Video Part 1
EV FAQ’s series answers questions about Electric Vehicles, EV Chargers, the EV Market & how Retrofit Electric plays a key role. 800-795-1230
January 10, 2023
Prairie Island Ice Arena- Lighting Upgrade [Video]
A lighting upgrade at Prairie Island Ice Arena created maintenance savings, energy savings, and improved light quality.
December 28, 2022
5 Tips to Help Your Business Go Green!
Sustainability and green business practices are becoming increasingly important to customers. Check out our 5 tips to help your business go green!
December 12, 2022
Why Should You Replace Your Metal Halides with LED Lights?
Making the switch from metal halides to LED can create huge energy savings and improved light quality.
November 16, 2022
Benefits of having LED Exterior Lighting during the Winter
Extreme weather and dark days make exterior lighting extra important during the winters, especially in Minnesota.
October 31, 2022
Maintenance Savings at Red Wing Schools [Lighting Before & After Video]
District-wide maintenance savings with LED lighting upgrade at Red Wing Schools, 800,000+ sq ft and $250,000 utility rebate through Xcel.
September 30, 2022
A New Wave of Customer Needs: Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations is the new way businesses are staying caught up with evolving customer needs. Not only are EV charging stations becoming a new standard for customers with electric vehicles, but the charging stations can also benefit the businesses installing them.
September 6, 2022
Why Shop Women-Owned? Powerful Benefits to Partnering with a WOSB
Did you know we are certified women-owned?! We are apart of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council!
August 24, 2022
Jerry Gamble Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities- Lighting Project (with Video!)
Retrofit Lighting & Design upgraded the exterior lighting & interior lighting at the Jerry Gamble Boys & Girls Club of the Twin Cities. We were able to improve the lighting quality and create a better environment for the kids, while also lowering the energy costs for the building. This upgrade created a $7,000 a year savings on an energy basis!
August 9, 2022
Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities Lighting Upgrade Sneak Peek (Video)
Retrofit Lighting & Design upgraded the exterior lighting & interior lighting at the Jerry Gamble Boys & Girls Club of the Twin Cities! The costs for this project were cut in half through rebates, grants, and partnerships. We were able to not only improve the lighting quality and create a better environment for the kids, but also lower the energy costs for the building.
July 27, 2022
Double Bonus Rebate Dollars on Tubes for Limited Time!
Xcel is now offering double bonus rebate dollars on tubes for a limited time! If you have been thinking about upgrading your tube lighting, now is the time!
July 22, 2022
25% Bonus Rebates for LED Tubes Now Available!
The One-Stop Efficiency Shop, sponsored by Xcel Energy, is now offering 25% more in rebates for LED tubes alongside their existing bonus rebates for interior DLC and DLC Premium fixtures.
July 11, 2022
Retrofit Electric – Sneak Peek of AMR Warehouse Project!
We’re not just doing lighting anymore! Check out our Retrofit Electric crew at work on an office-buildout project at the Advanced Masonry Restoration (AMR) Warehouse in St. Paul, MN!
July 7, 2022
Xcel Energy 2022 Energy Efficient Partner Award
We are thrilled to announce that The Retrofit Companies, Inc. is a recipient of the Xcel Energy’s 2022 Energy Efficient Partner Award.
June 30, 2022
Electronics Recycling Company Near Me – Events All Season Long (Video)
Electronics Recycling Events in Washington County, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Nebraska and more!
April 20, 2022
Limited-Time 25% Bonus LED Lighting Rebates with Xcel Energy in Minnesota
Considering an LED Lighting Upgrade in 2022? If you are a business considering a lighting retrofit or upgrade to your facility, contact our Lighting Team to discuss how we partner with Xcel Energy and CEE for their Rebates Programs and how these 2022 Bonus LED Lighting Rebates can be utilized for your lighting project. These […]
April 11, 2022
Premiere Apprenticeship Program – Electrician Career & Tuition Support
We have multiple new open positions in both our Retrofit Lighting & Design division and our Retrofit Environmental division. Join our thriving team of successful employees and share with your network looking for work in the Twin Cities area.
January 6, 2022
Powerful Results of Full Color Lights in Special Ed Classrooms
Faribault Middle School, in Faribault, Minnesota, shared the powerful results of the full color tunable lights in their Special Education classrooms. Retrofit Lighting & Design upgraded the entire facility to LED lighting and installed full spectrum color tunable lights in both rooms, including a wall-mounted iPad and app based control systems. Teachers from Faribault Middle School share that they have observed reduced problem behaviors, increased patience in their students and staff, as well as more interest in their special education programs.
October 5, 2021
Battery Recycling – What Happens To Old Batteries? (Detailed Guide)
Brett Weber, Environmental Sales Rep for Retrofit Environmental in the Twin Cities, MN, provides hazardous & regulated waste recycling tips
September 17, 2021
Warehouse Lighting Upgrade (Video)
Retrofit Lighting & Design upgraded the warehouse lighting & office lighting throughout a 30,000+ sq ft building for GNW Machine; a custom manufacturing business in Lino Lakes, Minnesota. The LED retrofit solutions have a payback on investment of approx. 1.7 years, include a large rebate from the utility company, provide increased accuracy, efficiency, overall productivity and a notable boost in employee morale.
September 3, 2021
We’re Hiring! Job Openings in the Twin Cities, MN (Video)
We have multiple new open positions in both our Retrofit Lighting & Design division and our Retrofit Environmental division. Join our thriving team of successful employees and share with your network looking for work in the Twin Cities area.
June 26, 2021
Tax Benefits for Installing Energy Efficient Lighting
These tax benefits on installing energy efficient lighting are sometimes overlooked and can really make an impact to the bottom line.
June 22, 2021
Hazardous Waste Recycling Tips – Brett Weber (Video)
Brett Weber, Environmental Sales Rep for Retrofit Environmental in the Twin Cities, MN, provides hazardous & regulated waste recycling tips
June 14, 2021
Brighten Up Senior Living Lighting (Video)
The surprising ways we saved this Senior Living facility over 50% of their project costs while upgrading their lighting, relieving eye-strain, and reducing trip and fall hazards for senior citizens.
May 17, 2021
Color Tuning Lighting in Schools (Video)
Color tuning lighting technology in schools, especially Special Education classrooms, have significant positive benefits for students and staff.
April 28, 2021
Mike Kuempel Employee Spotlight (Video)
Introducing Mike Kuempel, one of TRC’s Class A Drivers! Mike enjoys golf, beer, running and shares a few interesting stories about pizza, Dave Matthews on a private island and a special someone named George. Learn more about Mike.
April 11, 2021
Reasons Why Exterior Lighting Should be Installed in the Summer
Scheduling exterior lighting work during the summer can greatly reduce the time it takes to install a project versus doing it in the winter.
April 8, 2021
Ice Arena Lighting – Wireless Controls, Lakeville MN (Video)
Arena lighting and wireless controls, energy savings, reducing shadows on the ice rinks and energy reduction in Lakeville, MN.
March 22, 2021
Battery Containing Devices – A Recycling Challenge
Battery Containing Devices (BCDs) are a growing concern to e-scrap recyclers. Huge volumes of electronics with imbedded rechargeable batteries create massive risks and challenges for e-scrap recyclers. Better processes need to be created to ensure these devices are being properly processed and do not end up in landfills.
March 19, 2021
What is CRI? (Color Rendering Index)
CRI (Color Rendering Index) is a measurement of light in relation to how it affects the appearance of color. CRI is key when choosing LEDs for interior lighting for industries such as retail, education, healthcare, grocery and hospitality.
February 3, 2021
Connecting with Employees in 2020 (Video)
TRC President Wendy Fry shares how she connected with employees during 2020.
January 8, 2021
How to Disinfect the Indoor Air at Your Business (Video)
Ventilation, air purifiers and air filtration systems are part of a safe and proactive plan to protect yourself and your business in this new age of heightened. We worked with Northern Force Dance Company in Blaine, MN to install 2 types of airborne virus and pathogen defense, killing >90% of airborne and surface viruses in 30 minutes.
December 7, 2020
Adam Wacholz Employee Spotlight (Video)
Introducing Adam Wacholz! Having only been with TRC since February, Adam has jumped right into our Lighting Sales Team and hasn’t let a little thing like COVID stop him from excelling and making the best of this strange new world. Adam is a MN guy through and through, loves outdoor sports, and has experienced some “fan-girl” moments in his life having been mistaken for his celebrity look-a-like!
October 21, 2020
Top 10 FAQ (List)
The Retrofit Companeis, Inc. had the pleasure of working with Johnson, Doerhoefer & Miner P.A. (JDM), at their Owatonna location, to improve their interior office lighting with a simple LED refresh. The Partners at JDM recognized the importance of proper workspace lighting and during, what some are calling, an economic recession, these financial gurus easily concluded that this efficient lighting was a no-brainer.
October 5, 2020
Office Lighting: Upgrading to LED During a Pandemic (Video)
The Retrofit Companeis, Inc. had the pleasure of working with Johnson, Doerhoefer & Miner P.A. (JDM), at their Owatonna location, to improve their interior office lighting with a simple LED refresh. The Partners at JDM recognized the importance of proper workspace lighting and during, what some are calling, an economic recession, these financial gurus easily concluded that this efficient lighting was a no-brainer.
September 24, 2020
Universal Waste Aerosol Recycling Program
Aerosols now accepted as Universal Waste in Iowa, making it much easier and less expensive to recycle. Share with your Iowa businesses & we will schedule a pickup! #Recycle #EnvironmentalServices #TRC #Aerosols #AerosolWaste #UniversalWaste #EPA #RCRA
August 18, 2020
Retail Lighting: Small Business Owners Support Each Other During Pandemic (Video)
TRC supports a local small business in Owatonna, MN with improved retail lighting, finding the best options for their budget, excellent rebates from local utilities, and huge savings during a tough time for businesses both small and large.
August 7, 2020
Lights that Kill Germs: Do They Really Work?
Sanitizing through light: LEDs and UVs meet the desperate needs of sanitizing options beyond chemicals, hand-washing and mask-wearing.
July 27, 2020
Iowa Rebates Increase by 50% Effective July 1, 2020
Special recovery rebates from Xcel Energy for damaged businesses in Twin Cities, Minnesota. Learn if you qualify and The Retrofit Companies, Inc. can process these rebates and install your lighting upgrade for your business.
July 2, 2020
Special Recovery Rebates for Damaged Twin Cities Businesses
Special recovery rebates from Xcel Energy for damaged businesses in Twin Cities, Minnesota. Learn if you qualify and The Retrofit Companies, Inc. can process these rebates and install your lighting upgrade for your business.
July 1, 2020
Myths about LED Lighting and LED Light Bulbs
LEDs are the new standard in efficient lighting. Here we explore some of the LED lighting myths you’ve heard about and discover the truth about this lighting option. Are they too expensive? Do they really last forever? Is every LED created equal? The Retrofit Companies, Inc. in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnesota, shares their expertise and solutions to these common lighting myths.
May 12, 2020
Tunable Lighting Improves Performance and Morale in Workplace
Advanced Masonry Restoration, of St. Paul, Minnesota, worked with TRC, custom Lighting and Design experts, to upgrade their office to the latest LED Tunable Lighting, fully equipped with customized controls in every room. Full color tuning available in every office allows employees to customize their settings to their personal preferences and increases productivity throughout the workplace.
May 5, 2020
Contaminated Wipes or PPE Disposal During COVID-19
Medical waste disposal for facility decontamination, regulated medical biohazard waste solids, PPE, masks, gloves, and other waste associated with the cleaning and sanitation of your work space during this COVID-19 pandemic. The Retrofit Companies, Inc. located in St. Paul, Owatonna, Minneapolis Minnesota is an LED Lighting Designer and Recycling Service for Industrial, Commercial and other Businesses in the Midwest and nationwide.
April 27, 2020
Healthcare: How Lighting Supports Medical Staff and Patients
Does Lighting Really Impact Human Health? It’s no secret that lighting has proven positive effects on mental health, productivity and impacts the human circadian rhythm, sleep patterns and even mental alertness. Even more importantly, proper lighting in healthcare facilities has proven to reduce patients length of stay, decrease depression and even dementia in some […]
April 6, 2020
5 Ways to Save Money When Your Building is Empty [checklist]
The Retrofit Companies, Inc., Lighting Designer and Contractor out of St. Paul, Minneapolis, Minnesota, provides suggestions on how to save money with a temporarily empty or semi-occupied building.
March 30, 2020
Advanced Lighting Controls: CLCP Certified
TRC’s Team of Lighting Professionals Recognized by NALMCO CLCP Official! TRC’s entire Project Development team has received their Certified Lighting Controls Professional (CLCP) designation, placing them at the top of the competitive market within the lighting professionals industry. As lighting and controls become increasingly complex, TRC is proud to provide our customers with […]
March 13, 2020
5 Things You Should Know About 2020 Energy Rebates in Minnesota
Minnesota rebate programs have been busy rolling out major updates to their 2020 rebate terms. Updates include “bonus rebates,” extended timelines, and newly qualifying lamps/tubes/fixtures. This is big news for businesses that are considering a lighting retrofit or have been waiting for more incentives to support their lighting upgrade projects. LED lighting upgrades in […]
March 2, 2020
Angel Cassen Employee Spotlight
Introducing Angel Cassen, TRC’s Finance Manager. Angel has been with TRC for a little over 2 years, has worked in finance for over 12 years (but could have been in a very different career!). This mother of 3 has a busy life outside of work and her family is going through a very exciting transition soon. Learn more about Angel below.
February 21, 2020
Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives Renewed Through 2020
An enormous and much needed boost to domestic green buildings was just pushed through congress, most notably supporting energy efficient commercial buildings.
January 20, 2020
Blue Earth Art Center – Customer Spotlight
With hopes of bringing her dream community art center to life, a local Blue Earth, MN woman needed our help with a chemical clean out of an abandoned building.
January 13, 2020
Employee Spotlight – Gary Johnson
TRC has always focused on hiring great people to become part of the TRC family, and now it’s time for you to get to know our employees a little bit better. Beyond their expertise, our team brings a unique mix of backgrounds, hobbies and special skills to the table. Check us out! Introducing Gary Johnson […]
December 13, 2019
Xcel Energy Solutions Expo 2019
Energy Champions Once again we were honored to exhibit at this year’s Xcel Energy Solutions Expo as a featured Energy Partner, sharing our knowledge and services that reduce energy usage and support customers in meeting their sustainability goals. This expo brings together energy champions in the industry to celebrate achievements in energy management, […]
November 11, 2019
5 Ways Lighting Reduces Operating Costs
Reducing Operational Costs Through Lighting Plans By: Bret Wobschall Despite cost savings being just one of the many benefits of an LED retrofit, it is typically the primary justification of an organization doing an LED retrofit. What many people don’t know is that there are still many cost savings that are not typically accounted […]
November 6, 2019
Employee Spotlight – Kristin Duerr
TRC has always focused on hiring great people to become part of the TRC family, and now it’s time for you to get to know our employees a little bit better. Beyond their expertise, our team brings a unique mix of backgrounds, hobbies and special skills to the table. Check us out! Introducing Kristin Duerr […]
October 14, 2019
Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal
Order. Pak. Ship. Easy. ReturnPak: DEA Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Program Many residents and businesses have expired or unused pharmaceutical products and don’t know what to do with them. The Retrofit Companies, Inc. is excited to share with you this cost-effective, environmentally friendly program. Pharmaceutical Waste ReturnPak is designed to help you properly dispose […]
October 9, 2019
Importance of Proper Light Levels
Whether in industrial or office settings, lighting in your workplace is very important. Believe it or not, proper light levels may increase productivity and alertness in the workplace, whereas poor light levels could cause less productivity, along with health concerns. The perfect level of light can be measured by using foot-candles. Making sure the light-levels […]
September 16, 2019
Difference Between Residential and Commercial Grade Lighting
When shopping for light bulbs it is often hard to know the difference between one another because they all look so similar. You may wonder, “if they all look the same, do they all work the same?” The answer is no. Light bulbs come in all shapes and sizes but what you don’t see are […]
September 10, 2019
Flicker Effect with LED Lights
Thought the days of flickering lights were over? As lighting sources have evolved from fluorescent lighting systems to the highly efficient LED lighting systems, many thought the days of light flickering were over, but that’s not the case. Although LED lights have less flickering than fluorescent lighting systems, there are so many different LED tubes […]
September 3, 2019
Annual Peacock Open 2019
TRC Keeps Company Culture and Customer Relations a Top Priority at Annual Golf Outing Southern Hills Golf Course The Retrofit Companies, Inc. has hosted an annual golf outing for nearly 20 years, bringing employees, customers and vendors together to celebrate successful partnerships. For nearly the past decade we have held our Peacock Open […]
August 30, 2019
Part 6: It’s Just…Ceramic Glaze
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 6: It’s Just…Ceramic Glaze This is part 6 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, […]
August 29, 2019
Part 5: It’s Just…Epoxy
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 5: It’s Just…Epoxy This is part 5 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, and […]
August 19, 2019
LED Lighting – Understanding Color Temperature
Have you ever noticed multi-colored light coming from a light fixture and wonder why part of the fixture is yellow and part is blue, or white? Being in the lighting industry, the staff here at The Retrofit Companies, Inc, notices far too often, that the color temperature of lighting solutions is overlooked. Lighting color […]
August 16, 2019
Employee Spotlight – Taylor Bergum
Introducing Taylor Bergum Introducing Taylor Bergum: Taylor joined TRC at the beginning of June as a Summer Intern working in the Marketing Department at the Little Canada location. She recently graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in Marketing and is excited to see what her future has in-store. Check out the video […]
August 9, 2019
Part 4: It’s Just…Paint
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 4: It’s Just…Paint This is part 4 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, and […]
August 8, 2019
Customer Spotlight – Samaritan Bethany
PROJECT OVERVIEW Samaritan Bethany is a senior care facility in Rochester, MN. Coming up on their 100th Anniversary, Samaritan Bethany continues to serve the residents of their community by making sure their needs are met as they age. With the goal of having their facility feel like home, they strive to make the environment as […]
August 5, 2019
Understanding Energy-Efficient Product Certifications
What are Energy Star and DLC? On the packaging of many different energy efficient light bulbs and products, you may notice some approved by Energy Star, whereas others may be approved by the DLC. It is common for many consumers to be unaware of what these logos mean. We break down the two to give […]
August 1, 2019
Part 3: It’s Just…Windex
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 3: It’s Just…Windex This is part 3 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, and […]
July 31, 2019
Part 2: It’s Just…Drano
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 2: It’s Just…Drano This is part 2 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, and […]
July 15, 2019
How To Properly Dispose of Smoke Detectors
By Steve Jacobs, Environmental Division Manager Why Should I Properly Dispose of Smoke Detector? Customers frequently ask us about properly disposing of smoke detectors and why they are different from other electronic scrap wastes. With these life-saving devices in nearly every home, you would assume disposal would be fairly easy. So why can’t we just […]
July 11, 2019
Tariffs – The Rising Impact On Your Lighting Project
WHAT ARE TARIFFS Tariffs are essentially taxes on imported and exported goods. Tariffs date back centuries, however the most pressing issues on tariffs in the US are primarily focused on the continuing trade war with China, and other nations. The cost of delaying a lighting project could grow exponentially as tariffs continue to rise. WHAT’S […]
June 28, 2019
How to Package Batteries for Shipment
Steve Jacobs, Environmental Services Director for The Retrofit Companies, Inc., shares tips on how to follow proper packaging guidelines for common battery types, including alkaline, lithium, lead acid and nickel cadmium.
June 19, 2019
Part 1: It’s Just…Bondo
A Guide to Common Products with Uncommon Properties By: Nick Dryden Part 1: It’s Just…Bondo This is part 1 of our It’s Just… series on common products we see in industry. In this series we will be focusing on the chemicals found in these products, where you might find them in your facility, and how […]
June 12, 2019
Employee Spotlight – Jeff Glynn
TRC has always focused on hiring great people to become part of the TRC family, and now it’s time for you to get to know our employees a little bit better. Beyond their expertise, our team brings a unique mix of backgrounds, hobbies and special skills to the table. Check us out! Introducing Jeff […]
June 10, 2019
Aerosol Can Recycling Program
TRC Aerosol Recycling Program* *please note that state regulations change frequently; please contact TRC for the latest regulations in your state Despite the changing regulations around Aerosol recycling, TRC is pleased to provide an easy program for businesses in Minnesota to comply. Since introducing the program in 2016, we have seen a growing number […]
June 10, 2019
Supporting The Interior Lighting Campaign
The Interior Lighting Campaign (ILC) is a recognition and guidance program from the U.S. Department of Energy designed to help facility owners and managers take advantage of energy-saving opportunities from high-efficiency interior lighting solutions. TRC is a proud supporter of this campaign!
May 20, 2019
Customer Spotlight – Amesbury Truth
Customer Spotlight featuring TRC’s Carl Murray, discussing the recent lighting upgrades at Amesbury, Truth in Owatonna in both their office spaces and their production areas. PROJECT OVERVIEW Amesbury Truth, a leading provider of window and door components, has a rich history dating back to as early as 1914 where Truth Hardware began in a […]
May 1, 2019
Xcel Energy Efficiency Award Recipient – 2018
Energy Efficiency Partner Award Once again, The Retrofit Companies, Inc. is proud to accept the Energy Efficiency Partner Award as a Business Lighting Efficiency Program Winner. It is always an honor to be recognized as a top-tier trade partner and to be considered one of the most effective lighting trade allies. Thank you Xcel […]
April 29, 2019
Employee Spotlight – Zane Kramer
Want to know more about our TRC family? Check out our Employee Spotlight on Zane Kramer, one of our dedicated employees for many years, bringing a rich cultural background and expertise in the lighting rebate industry!
April 3, 2019
Employee of the Year 2018
Peer Recognition The Employee of the Year award recognizes an individual that has been nominated by their TRC peers for their contributions throughout the year. This year our recipient was unable to attend our annual Employee Appreciation Party, so we decided to surprise him in the office. Congratulations to our 2018 Employee of the Year! […]
March 19, 2019
TRC Lighting Experts Receive Prestigious Certifications
Digger Anderson, TRC’s Lighting Project Development Director, and Chris Wendling, TRC’s Project Developer, receive Lighting Certified (LC) Professionals certifications in January, 2019. Digger is one of approximately 62 individuals with this certification in the state of Minnesota, and Chris Wendling is one of 41 individuals in Iowa.
January 9, 2019
TRC Featured in LM&M Magazine
TRC is thrilled to grace the pages of the NALMCO LM&M Magazine as a featured Project Spotlight in the newly released December issue. NALMCO is an organization that has really set the standard for Lighting Quality Management and brings together business experts in the Lighting Industry.
December 27, 2018
Steve Kath Receives NALMCO Award
TRC is proud to see former President Steve Kath recognized for his many years of service to NALMCO. Steve was honored at the 65th Annual NALMCO Convention & Trade Show in Orlando, FL.
December 24, 2018
Employee Spotlight – Adam Lundahl
Introducing Adam Lundahl; Adam has been with TRC for approx. 11 years and has a background in land surveying and pre-demolition, recently finding his way into a successful role in Environmental Sales.
Adam has a passion for hockey, his kids and loves to be outdoors. Ask him where he would rather be and he will likely say on his boat in the sun, or in the Bahamas. He loves the water and the beach.
TRC Partners with Communities to Recycle E-Waste
This year The Retrofit Companies Inc., held dozens of recycling events and partnered with cities and counties across Minnesota to provide residents with responsible recycling options for those unwanted household electronics, such as old TV’s or monitors.
December 24, 2018
LED Tunable Lighting – 3 Types
LED TUNABLE LIGHT LED Lighting continues to offer consumers more than just energy efficiency, and with new types of tunable lighting technology becoming more readily available, there are a variety of additional benefits. LED Luminaires, with the ability to deliver varying light color, have been on the market since early days of LED lighting, but the […]
December 24, 2018Tariffs – The Rising Impact On Your Lighting Project
Tariffs are essentially taxes on imported and exported goods. Tariffs date back centuries, however the most pressing issues on tariffs in the US are primarily focused on the continuing trade war with China, and other nations. The cost of delaying a lighting project could grow exponentially as tariffs continue to rise.
December 23, 2018
Employee Spotlight – Michelle Gwin
On any given day you can find her interacting with customers, keeping spirits high around the office and making sure our Environmental Services are thriving.
December 23, 2018
Lithium Batteries Are a Fire Hazard
If the batteries have a flaw, are damaged, overcharged, packed too closely together or are exposed to high temperatures they can overheat. This can be a very dangerous situation where uncontrolled positive feedback can cause other nearby batteries to overheat, triggering a domino effect of what is known as “thermal runaway.”
December 23, 2018
EPA Launches New E-Manifest System
The EPA is in the final stages of developing their nationwide Electronic Tracking System, with a compliance target date of June 30th, 2018.
December 23, 2018
Employee Spotlight – Jake Andrist
TRC has always focused on hiring great people to become part of the TRC family, and now it’s time for you to get to know our employees a little bit better. Beyond their expertise, our team brings a unique mix of backgrounds, hobbies and special skills to the table. Check us out!
October 24, 2018
3 types of linear LED tubes
Confused about different types of linear LED tubes? We break down the 3 most common types of T8 and T5 LED tubes used in LED lighting retrofit projects and their various pros and cons.
October 23, 2018
Case Study – ISD #299 Caledonia Public Schools LED Upgrade
ISD #299 Caledonia Public Schools prides themselves on empowering learners for life and their strong ties to the community. In a school district serving Caledonia and the surrounding areas, it became abundantly clear to superintendent Craig Ihrke and his team that providing a welcoming environment was a necessity.
September 24, 2018
Local School Cleans Out Chemical Stockpile
Radioactive materials have long been used in schools to demonstrate this fundamental concept. These materials may be dangerous if not properly handled and stored. We often find that these materials were purchased long ago, by staff who have since moved on. As regulations change and new staff arrive, it can be a challenge to keep training and licensing current.
September 24, 2018
Wendy Fry Featured In Local Magazine
Wendy’s success story is worth a read, not to mention the insights that she shares with readers regarding how to find success in any business. Take it from the woman that worked her way up through the ranks and finds herself at the helm of a decades-long successful business that is growing at a rapid pace in the Lighting and Environmental Services industries.
August 24, 2018
Customer Spotlight – Crown Plastics
“We just took a look at our overall lighting, mainly from our production areas, and they were all either running T8 or T12 fixtures, some metal halide…and they were failing. I was done switching them over. I didn’t want to do it one by one…I knew there had to be a better solution out there,” -Matt Van Beusekom.
August 24, 2018
Employee Spotlight – Clay Leidall
Clay joined TRC at the beginning of June as a Summer Intern working in the Sales and Marketing departments. Clay primarily works at TRC’s Owatonna location but you will also find him in the Little Canada office from time to time learning other aspects of the business.
August 23, 2018
Employee Spotlight – Brett Weber
Brett joined TRC in early 2018, and already he has become part of the family by connecting with both our employees and customers. You will find Brett bright and early in the office supporting both the Sales and Customer Service components of the business, not to mention his keen ability to make a fine cup of coffee.
June 23, 2018
Customer Spotlight – Steve Grandgenett, Algona Municipal Utilities
“In the process we were able to reduce the amount of energy we use per fixture by 45-50%.” – Steve Grandgenett, Algona Municipal Utilities Located in the small town of Algona, Iowa, approximately 3 hours south of the Twin Cities, the Algona Municipal Utilities (AMU) recently renovated their office building. AMU supplies electric, water, cable, internet, and […]
June 23, 2018
Customer Spotlight – Nate Cardin, Southern Hills Golf Course
The frustration of continuously changing and replacing burnt out light bulbs and ballasts is a maintenance nightmare for anyone, and Nate Cardin, the General Manager at Southern Hills Golf course, was experiencing this daily hassle before he decided to give TRC a call.
June 23, 2018
Industry Expert NALMCO Highlights LED Project
TRC is thrilled to grace the pages of the NALMCO LM&M Magazine as a featured Project Spotlight in the newly released May issue. NALMCO is an organization that has really set the standard for Lighting Quality Management and brings together business experts in the Lighting Industry.
May 23, 2018
Customer Spotlight – Bob Shellen, Amesbury Truth
Today we checked in with Bob at Amesbury Truth in Owatonna, MN to talk about their business and working with TRC. We have partnered on both Environmental Services projects and Lighting projects over the years, and today he told us about one of the very first projects that was a success and why he continues to work with TRC.
April 23, 2018
5 Ways Lighting Can Save Our Planet
Chances are that your business has discussed ways to limit their carbon footprint, be more environmentally friendly and maybe even kick starting some green initiatives. Learn more about how easy it is have a positive impact on our planet with this 5 Easy Ways Lighting Can Save Our Planet infographic.
March 23, 2018
Lakeville School District – Lighting Case Study
Lakeville Schools (MN) and The Retrofit Companies, Inc. (TRC) recently partnered to discuss the district’s 2 and 10 year plans at Eastview Elementary School. Both of the strategic plans included goals of implementing energy saving lighting solutions across the entire district.
February 23, 2018
How To Find the Best Energy Rebates
You probably know that there are a lot of energy rebates out there that may save you money upfront or have a great payback in the end. But are you sure you are maximizing your savings through energy rebate programs? Do you hear about rebate programs in your area but are not sure what you quality for?
February 23, 2018Another interview with Darin at Wausau Supplies : Exterior Lighting LED upgrade
Earlier this year, we completed his exterior lighting LED upgrade project, and Darin was nice enough to let us know how it went. “The outside of our building had traditional metal-halide bulbs on the building and on light posts. Very poor lighting and not cost effective at all…We were throwing money away!!”
September 23, 2017
Xcel Energy Efficiency Awards 2017
Thank you to Xcel Energy, once again, for including The Retrofit Companies in this year’s Energy Efficiency Partner Award recipients! This is the 3rd year in a row that TRC has received this award.
May 23, 2017Tank Talk: Tank Maintenance and Cleaning Services
To continue to provide the environmental services that our customers need from us. We have recently started promoting our tank cleaning and maintenance services. Tanks can be found in all kinds of buildings, including schools, manufacturing, and any building that, at one point, used a boiler. Some tanks will get used and maintenanced regularly, while […]
April 23, 2017Interview with Darin at Wausau Supplies : HID to T8 to LED
Central Regional Manager for Wausau Supply Darin at Wausau Supplies has five locations to watch over. He “really appreciates the value of TRC doing a complete job – something you’re going to stand behind, that you’re going to do it the way that we want it, and listen to us. We’ve found that to be true with The Retrofit Companies.”
March 23, 2017Parking Garage LED Lighting Retrofit Case Study
This parking garage lighting project’s dramatic improvement in lighting came along with $23,634 in utility rebate incentives, plus a Green Business Cost Sharing program from the city of Minneapolis when this client upgraded the aging, inefficient high pressure sodium lighting.
December 23, 2016Interview with Trent Lowe: Allied Parking LED Retrofit
Recently, we shared a new case study about an LED retrofit project recently completed at Allied Parking’s Gateway ramp located downtown Minneapolis. This facility is unique because the first floor is a layover terminal for MTC buses. Keep reading to find out why Trent felt that working with TRC was different than working with other contractors.
December 23, 20162017 Xcel Energy Rebate Updates
Xcel Energy recently shared the 2016/2017 Minnesota Business Rebate structure updates in their newsletter to TRC. Some previously unavailable utility rebate options are now available for LED down light retrofits and for LED screw-in as HID replacements. LED street lighting and area lighting are two Xcel Energy rebate options that are greatly improved for 2017. Keep reading […]
December 23, 2016Why Invest in a Lighting Study? (Video Interview)
Sweet Harvest facility manager, Brian Pleschcourt talks about his experience with an aging and inefficient lighting system, and tells us how the Lighting Redesign Study process worked for his facility. Read the interview now. Why did Sweet Harvest decide to replace the lighting in your facility? What were the issues you faced and what were some […]
November 23, 2016Corporations Step Up to Support Community Ewaste Recycling Collections
Over the span of just ten days, over the course of 5 years, in a town with less than 1,800 residents, one company was able to collect more than 115,000 pounds of waste electronics and appliances as a service to its employees. This waste was diverted from improper disposal or landfilling, and was responsibly recycled. The community collection model has been a staggering success for the worker community at Marvin Windows and Doors.
November 23, 2016Retrofit Case Study: Interior and Exterior Lighting Upgrades
This church and school decided it was time to update the look of their facility and invest in energy-efficiency by implementing this full facility lighting upgrade and retrofit. The areas addressed in this project ranged from office and classrooms, to a gymnasium/auditorium, and a sanctuary space that required a dynamic lighting control system.
March 23, 2016Hazards of LED T8 Lamps
We believe that a lighting system should be functional and efficient. This is the obvious and most intended goal for retrofit projects we do, and we know many options are available. Knowing you have so many choices, we always share the future risks and maintenance scenarios to help our clients make informed decisions for the best long […]
March 23, 2016Auto Sales Lot LED Lighting Retrofit
Many lighting projects focus on the inside of a facility, but there are many businesses that require high-quality, energy-efficient lighting for their exteriors. Auto sales lots are a great example of a business that needs exceptional exterior lighting. Their “sales floor” is the entire parking lot.
March 23, 2016VIDEO of LED Motion Sensor Test in Warehouse
This space was redesigned to include energy-efficient LED fixtures on a system of motion sensors that control the on/off of fixtures as people and equipment, like the forklift seen in the video, move through the spaces. Take a look to see the both the rapid movement and slow movement tests.
February 23, 2016