Albert Lea, MN — Vortex Cold Storage, in partnership with WDS Construction and Cedar Creek Energy, celebrated a major sustainability milestone last week with a ribbon cutting for its new rooftop solar installation – now the largest behind-the-meter rooftop solar array in the state of Minnesota.
The 1.856 megawatt (MW) DC system marks a significant leap forward for renewable energy adoption in the industrial and cold storage sectors. Prior to this project, the largest rooftop array in Minnesota measured 1.2 MW DC, making the Vortex installation more than 50% larger than the previous record-holding system.
With a total generation capacity of 2.3 MW AC, the system will provide the annual equivalent energy needed to power roughly 300 Minnesota homes, significantly reducing Vortex’s carbon footprint while improving long-term operational resilience.
A Complex Construction Effort Led by WDS Construction
As the general contractor, WDS Construction led the planning, coordination and construction of the rooftop installation, executing the work above an active, temperature-sensitive cold storage environment – one of the most challenging contexts for solar installation.
Key construction highlights include:
- Construction Above Active Operations: WDS completed the installation while Vortex remained fully operational, requiring precise scheduling, daily coordination with Vortex facility leadership and strict adherence to safety protocols to avoid disruption to the cold storage environment.
- Seamless Partner Collaboration: WDS worked closely with Cedar Creek Energy to align construction sequencing with solar installation phases, ensuring efficient wiring, inverter placement, racking installation and system testing.
- Delivered On Time and On Budget: Despite operating in a complex live environment with weather and schedule constraints, the project was completed on time, on budget and to the highest quality standards.
“This project pushed the boundaries of what rooftop solar can look like in the industrial and cold storage world,” said Denita Schreier, Executive Vice President of WDS Construction. “Executing work of this scale while keeping Vortex fully operational required careful planning, strong partnerships and a team committed to excellence. We’re proud of what we accomplished together.”
Partnerships Driving Progress
Cedar Creek Energy designed and engineered the solar system, working hand-in-hand with WDS throughout construction to integrate equipment, support inspections and prepare the system for successful commissioning.
“We were thrilled to partner with Vortex and WDS on an installation of this scale,” said Rick Tisdale, Senior Development Engineer at Cedar Creek Energy. “This project raises the bar for commercial solar in Minnesota. It demonstrates that large industrial facilities can meaningfully reduce their carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency.”
In addition to reducing energy costs and carbon emissions, the array positions Vortex Cold Storage as a leader in sustainability at a time when renewable energy is rapidly growing across Minnesota. The system reinforces the company’s commitment to future-focused operations, community investment and environmental stewardship.
“This is more than a solar project – it’s a long-term investment in the Albert Lea community,” said Tom Brust, Vortex President. “We’re grateful for our partners and excited for the positive impact this system will have for years to come.”
A Milestone for the Albert Lea Community
Beyond environmental benefits, the project supports local jobs, strengthens the regional economy and positions Albert Lea as a leader in renewable energy adoption across Minnesota.
The ribbon cutting event was attended by community leaders, state representatives and project partners.
About Vortex Cold Storage
Vortex Cold Storage delivers world-class freezer storage and handling services to the Midwest food manufacturing market. With temperatures ranging from 40 to –20 degrees Fahrenheit, our state-of-the-art, SQF-certified facility provides safe, reliable and flexible temperature-controlled storage. We pair exceptional customer service with streamlined technology to ensure accuracy, efficiency and transparency at every step. Learn more at www.vortexcoldstorage.com/.
About WDS Construction
WDS Construction is a full-service general contractor headquartered in Beaver Dam, WI, committed to building better through innovation, partnership, and a passion for construction. The company serves clients nationwide across industrial, cold storage, retail, commercial, and specialty markets. Learn more at: www.wdsconstruction.net.
About Cedar Creek Energy
Cedar Creek Energy is a Minnesota-based solar energy developer specializing in commercial and industrial solar solutions. The company provides design, engineering, installation, and long-term energy management services. Learn more at www.cedarcreekenergy.com.
Media Contact:
Tari Albright
Director of Marketing
WDS Construction
920-203-3421, talbright@wdsconstruction.net