Golden State Foods (GSF), Irvine, Calif., installed a total of 32 electric power outlets in its Garner, N.C.,  distribution center to cut costs and lower air emissions as part of a Duke Energy electrification project.

The six-pin electric standby SafeConnect connection system from SafeConnect, South Portland, Main, allows GSF’s cargo trucks to stop idling their engines to keep food cold, and instead plug into power outlets at the facility.

"Duke Energy is a strong believer in the benefits of electrification for our industrial customers," says Clark Gillespy, senior vice president, economic development at Duke Energy. "At Golden State Foods, truck idling will be lessened, saving money, lowering noise levels and reducing air emissions."

"Incorporating renewable energy at all GSF facilities and fleets is a priority, and part of our fundamental values and GSF's 2020 sustainability goals," says Gregg Tartlon, general manager, GSF Garner. "These new electric power outlets are estimated to save Garner nearly $110,000 a year, resulting in 80,000 gallons of fuel saved for our 65 trucks. There are 15 GSF and Quality Custom Distribution (a GSF-owned company) centers currently leveraging this type of technology."