PORTLAND, Ore. –

In an effort to conserve energy, Cox Enterprises, Manheim’s parent company, has set up a photovoltaic solar panel on the roof of the Manheim Portland auction.

Officials said the 16,500-square-foot panel can take the sun’s radiation and convert it to 193 MWh of energy each year. As such, more than a quarter of the auction’s electrical load requirement can now be powered through this panel.

“The Manheim Portland solar installation is closely tied to Cox Conserves, our national sustainability program,” stated Steve Bradley, director of alternate energy, engineering and business continuity for Cox Enterprises.

“This is our 10th alternative energy project, and combined, the projects prevent 12,000 tons of greenhouse gases from entering the environment on an annual basis,” he added.

The company rolled out Cox Conserves three years ago to promote energy sustainability through natural resource conservation, renewable energy and championing the practice of environmental responsibility.

Cox has requested its employees to join in the effort as well, asking them to partake in eco-friendly ways.

Jim Mumford, general manager of Manheim Portland, said: “We’re very pleased with the solar installation. It’s a visible example to our employees and customers that our company is committed to conserving energy.”