Athens, Tenn. – October 01, 2026 -- DENSO Manufacturing Athens Tennessee (DMAT) has generated more than 3,200 MWh of electricity through August from a new 5.25-megawatt solar facility, offsetting an estimated 1,125 metric tons of carbon emissions since launching in May.
Solar facility covers 18.8 acres with over 10,000 modules
The installation, built on the north side of DENSO's Athens property, ranks among DENSO's largest onsite renewable energy projects in North America. At a nameplate capacity of 5.25 megawatt alternating current (MWac), the system is expected to offset nearly 14% of DMAT's annual power consumption once fully operational for a full year.
Output already matches annual power use of 300 U.S. households
Electricity generated through August is enough to power roughly 300 average U.S. households for a year. The project was developed in collaboration with renewable energy company Solarity, with support from clean energy platform GridMarket, the Athens Utilities Board and the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Project follows 2025 solar launch at nearby DENSO Maryville plant
The Athens facility adds to a growing list of DENSO renewable energy initiatives in North America, following a solar installation launched in 2025 at DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee in Maryville. Mark Moses, president of DMAT, said the project demonstrates that manufacturing operations and environmental responsibility can be aligned.
Investment ties to DENSO's 2035 carbon-neutral target
The Athens project supports DENSO's "Green great cause" goal to achieve carbon neutrality across its products, processes and facilities by 2035. Yael Avner, CEO of Solarity, said the project reflects the company's ability to combine technical and financial solutions for large manufacturers. Jon Ruge, DENSO's Vice President of North America Safety, Health and Environment, said the Athens results demonstrate how renewable energy investments support the company's environmental targets.