Commercial, Demand Management, Energy Efficiency, Industrial  -  November 13, 2017

Chobani plans 'future of manufacturing' at Idaho plant

Artist rendering of a finalized expansion of Chobani's Twin Falls, Idaho, facility provided by Chobani. 

Chobani LLC, the second-largest yogurt manufacturer in the U.S., has announced grand plans for an expansion of its existing plant in Twin Falls, Idaho, that will build on its environmental commitment and utilize state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies. 

The company said in a Nov. 9 news release that the 70,000-square-foot facility will serve employees, guests and house the company's global research and development team and represent the "future of U.S. manufacturing," with some 30,000-square-feet of glass putting transparency and sunlight at the center of its design.

Approximately 4,000-square-feet of "smart glass" windows will greatly enhance natural light, while regulating internal temperatures and reducing use of heating and air conditioning, driving a 20% reduction in energy consumption, the company said. On top of that, the expansion will include a large skylight at the center of the building that will reduce lighting needs from the facility's all-LED lighting system, while 30,000-square-feet of "smart roofing" will reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.

Chobani said it is seeking LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for the facility, which is expected to open in summer 2018. 

The company also noted its focus on its people and the community in its announcement: Employees will be able to exercise in a 2,000-square-foot fitness center overlooking the Sawtooth Mountains "and gather at a sun-filled space for shared meals and relaxation," according to the news release. A dedicated visitor entrance will welcome the local community to learn more about the company's history of growth in Twin Falls, as well as its commitment to participating in local initiatives.