Central honored for energy efficiency

Central Insurance information

Central Mutual Insurance Company has been recognized by state and national organizations for its energy efficiency.

Central’s home office in Van Wert was designated an Energy Star Building by the Environmental Protection Agency for taking its rating from 66 to 93 on a 1-100 scale, representing energy efficiency.

Central worked closely with Waibel Energy Systems to improve the rating, which represents a reduction in energy consumption that equates to 142 homes, the electric usage of 11 million 100-watt light bulbs, or running 426 refrigerators. The increased efficiency reduced Central’s carbon dioxide emissions by more than 3.6 million pounds, a reduction equivalent to taking 321 cars off the road. Central was also recognized for its commitment to energy efficiency and the environment by participating in AEP Ohio’s savings incentives programs for business.

Bill Purmort, president and chairman of the Board of Central, noted, “It was surprising how quickly the energy conservation paid for itself while making a positive impact on the environment.”

Purmort expressed a strong interest in sustaining the EPA Energy Star rating of 93, and looking at the possible installation of solar applications in the near future.

Central has been externally and internally focused on environmental efficiency and sustainability since 2003. In addition to offering its customers several paperless options for managing their policies, Central has upgraded to mostly online systems, eliminating 170 filing cabinets of paper in the process. The company also recycles all paper, plastic, and aluminum, and offers electronic brochures and other publications in place of printed documents. Central is recognizing these accomplishments with a “Green Week” within the organization from April 16-21, during which employees are encouraged to recycle their old electronics, participate in a green service project in the community, and commit to new ways to live a “greener” lifestyle.

The Central Insurance Companies were founded in Van Wert in 1876, and provide insurance for automobiles, homes, and businesses to more than 390,000 policyholders in 18 states. The Central group of companies has combined assets of over $1 billion. Central’s A.M. Best rating is A (Excellent).