A Bold Step Toward Sustainability
In December of 2024, McCartney’s, Inc. partnered with Groundhog Solar LLC to install solar panels on our headquarters in Altoona – a major step in sustainable business practices. As a company rooted in service, innovation, and responsibility, we saw this not just as an opportunity to reduce our electricity bill—but as a strategic investment in our future and the future of Blair County. Sustainability has become more than a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. With this move, we’re joining a growing number of forward-thinking companies committed to long-term environmental and financial responsibility.
Why Solar? The Practical Business Case
For businesses of any size, the initial investment in solar might seem daunting—but the long-term savings are impossible to ignore. Solar power allows us to take greater control of our energy costs, insulating us from volatile utility pricing and reducing dependency on the grid. Over time, our solar installation will pay for itself, creating a compounding benefit that frees up capital for other improvements and innovations. In essence, going solar is not just a green initiative—it’s a smart financial decision.
Operational Resilience and Energy Independence
Energy reliability is becoming a larger concern across the country, and businesses in Blair County are not immune. Solar power, especially when paired with backup battery systems, offers a level of energy security that can make a major difference. For McCartney’s, this means fewer disruptions, more predictable costs, and a stronger ability to serve our customers no matter what happens on the grid. That kind of resilience isn’t just about staying online—it’s about building trust with the clients who rely on us every day.
Environmental Leadership That Sets the Standard
As a company that has long supplied sustainable office products and encouraged eco-conscious choices among our clients, going solar was a natural evolution of our mission. Now, we’re reducing our own carbon footprint, helping to improve local air quality, and doing our part to combat climate change. But perhaps most importantly, we’re modeling the kind of change we’d like to see throughout our community. Leadership in sustainability isn’t just about doing what’s right—it’s about inspiring others to do the same.
Why Blair County Businesses Should Consider Solar
Blair County has immense untapped potential for solar adoption. With abundant rooftops, rising energy costs, and increasing support from state and federal incentives, there’s never been a better time for businesses in our area to make the switch. Programs such as the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can significantly offset the upfront cost, and some businesses may qualify for accelerated depreciation through the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). More than ever, renewable energy is financially accessible—and it’s no longer just the domain of large corporations. Whether you run a manufacturing firm in Altoona, a retail store in Hollidaysburg, or a school in Bellwood, solar can work for you.
Partnering Locally: The Value of Groundhog Solar LLC
Our decision to work with Groundhog Solar wasn’t just about their technical expertise—it was also about their roots in our community. Like McCartney’s, they are committed to serving Blair County with integrity, responsiveness, and pride. They guided us through every step of the process, from planning and permitting to installation and post-project support. Supporting a local solar provider helped us complete this project efficiently, while keeping our investment circulating in the regional economy. We believe that’s a win-win.
An Invitation to Join the Movement
We didn’t make this move to grab headlines or chase trends. We did it because it made sense—economically, ethically, and operationally. We’re proud of this step and excited about what it means for our future. And we encourage other businesses in Blair County to explore what solar might mean for theirs. Whether you’re a large organization looking to improve long-term margins or a small operation seeking predictability in your utility bills, solar can offer a strategic advantage.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future, Powered by the Sun
At McCartney’s, Inc., we’ve always believed that doing the right thing pays off—whether that’s delivering unmatched service to our clients or investing in technology that makes a difference. Going solar with Groundhog Solar LLC is part of our broader commitment to excellence and sustainability. We’re excited about what this change means for our company, our community, and our planet. If you’ve been thinking about making the switch, now is the time. A brighter, cleaner, more resilient future starts with a single decision—and we’re proud to have made ours.
