EkoStinger, which claimed the $1 million grand prize in the 2018 76West Clean Energy Competition, recently opened its new manufacturing plant in New York’s Southern Tier.
New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, who launched the competition in 2016, lauded the opening of the new plant, which he says supports the efforts of his Green New Deal clean energy and jobs agenda, and complements “Southern Tier Soaring,” the region’s comprehensive strategy for generating economic growth and community development.
EkoStinger’s facility will produce devices for tractor trailers designed to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency.
“New York is making historic investments through the 76West competition to combat climate change, generate economic growth and create good jobs in every corner of the state,” Cuomo said. “The opening of EkoStinger’s manufacturing plant exemplifies our aggressive efforts to support cutting-edge clean energy entrepreneurs and keep the Southern Tier soaring.”
EkoStinger, based in Rochester NY, manufactures under-trailer aerodynamic devices it says reduce emissions by 4.9 metric tons per year, which is equivalent to taking one car off the road, for each device installed. The transportation sector is one of the largest producers of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in New York.
Since winning the competition last September, EkoStinger signed a lease for the new 8,000-square-foot facility at Elmira Corning Regional Airport, purchased new equipment from local vendors and hired six new employees. The new facility, which will enable it to manufacture additional product for distribution, is in addition to a building in Rochester where the company employs an another 18 workers. The new facility is expected to increase production for EkoStinger from 2,000 to 8,000 units a year, allowing its to expand its customer base, which currently includes Bridgestone, Raymour and Flanigan, Nestle, Ryder, Penske and Hyundai.
“We thank Gov. Cuomo for creating the 76West Competition and highlighting the importance of emerging clean energy companies,” said Parr Wiegel, CEO and co-founder of EkoStinger. “The overall experience of 76West has made us a better company and we look forward to being in the Southern Tier.”
