Lexmark has announced the groundbreaking of its solar array, which is expected to produce more than 3.3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) in its first year of operation, equivalent to avoiding the greenhouse gas emissions from nearly six million miles driven by an average passenger vehicle. The array will be operational in the spring of 2023.

"Lexmark has committed to achieving carbon neutrality across all our operations by 2035," said Allen Waugerman, president and CEO, Lexmark. "Renewable energy will help us achieve that goal and we are pleased to break ground on construction of a two-megawatt solar array at our Lexington headquarters. We appreciate the tremendous support from state officials, which helped make it possible."

"Last year, we announced Kentucky's energy strategy for a transitioning energy landscape," said Kentucky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman, who took part in the event. "Known as KYE3 — which stands for energy, environment and economic development — our long-term strategic vision for Kentucky is an energy strategy wrapped in economic development and focused on resilience. Lexmark is one company embodying the essence of KYE3. Congratulations on the groundbreaking of your solar array."

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman noted the teamwork required to make this project possible.

"This project and the collaborative effort between the cabinet and Lexmark is an excellent example of what we can achieve as Team Kentucky," Goodman said. "Lexmark is to be commended for its efforts to take an idle, inoperative piece of property and redevelop it for positive use for the community."

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Lexmark solar array project will provide a STEM education opportunity for local schools. Student groups will tour an adjacent (to be constructed) green space with walking trails, a wildlife habitat, butterfly garden and pollinator flower garden. Power generation analytics will be displayed in the company's customer engagement center.

"This project yet again shows that Lexmark is a great corporate citizen," said Linda Gorton, mayor, Lexington, Kentucky. "Through volunteerism and other community investments, Lexmark employees contribute to improving Lexington. This is one of several projects Lexmark has sponsored to improve our environment. The STEM education opportunities associated with this project will benefit our students for years to come."

Lexmark is working with project developer Melink Solar to install the solar array and First Solar to manufacture the solar panels. Schneider Electric advised Lexmark, assisting the company in project selection and negotiations.

"Lexmark and Schneider Electric are two global sustainability leaders with a large presence in Kentucky," said Steve Wilhite, president of the sustainability business, Schneider Electric. "We're proud of the progress we've seen in the state — and we're thrilled to be part of Lexmark's on-site solar array project."

In other news, Lexmark has announced it has been recognized with two Buyers Lab Winter 2022 Pick Awards from Keypoint Intelligence in the Outstanding Fleet Management Tool and Outstanding Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) Color MFP categories.

"Lexmark's recognition as a leader in enterprise and small office, home office print services validates our commitment to providing leading solutions to the entire business print market," said Brock Saladin, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, Lexmark. "Lexmark hardware and software solutions are designed to enhance productivity for users and IT staff members, making it easier for our customers to manage their print devices, from a single device in a small office to an enterprise fleet.”

Lexmark Markvision Enterprise claimed the Buyers Lab 2022 Pick Award for Outstanding Fleet Management Tool based on its automated enforcement of security and general device settings, proactive alerts enabling IT departments to solve problems before they occur and outstanding value proposition.

"Print remains a vital component in many business processes, and as long as print is required to keep processes moving, businesses will need a fleet management solution to make sure their fleet is secure, operational and cost-effective," said Lee Davis, associate director of software and scanners, Keypoint Intelligence. "Lexmark Markvision Enterprise comes with everything a business will need to maximize device uptime, minimize print costs and mitigate security risks. And because it's free, not to mention simple to use, Lexmark Markvision Enterprise offers the kind of value proposition that just cannot be denied — it really is that good."

The Lexmark MC3326i claimed the Buyers Lab Winter 2022 Pick Award for Outstanding SOHO Color MFP from Keypoint Intelligence based on its mix of features and functionality suited to small offices. Delivered in a compact package, the analysts at Keypoint Intelligence selected the device citing its reliability in keeping downtime to a minimum, ease of operation, and productivity and print quality.

"The Lexmark MC3326i is an excellent choice for small offices," said Kaitlin Shaw, senior consulting editor, Keypoint Intelligence. "Space in SOHO environments can be tight, so the compact dimensions here are greatly appreciated. The device helps to print on convenience and print anywhere fronts through support for Lexmark's own Mobile Print app and Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service and Wi-Fi Direct. For these reasons and more, the Lexmark MC3326i is a worthy recipient of the BLI Winter 2022 Pick Award for Outstanding SOHO Color MFP."