PMI's 26-year journey of growth and innovation has resulted in six major building expansions over the years, each of which benefited from support from Focus on Energy and Bloomer Electric Utility. These partnerships have allowed PMI to incorporate the latest in energy-saving technologies into its operations, resulting in reduced energy consumption and enhanced productivity.

Since 2018, PMI has completed an impressive 23 energy efficiency projects. They include LED lighting installation (both interior and exterior), compressed air systems, heat recovery systems, and variable frequency drives (VFDs). Collectively, these improvements saved nearly 6 million kilowatt hours of electricity and 172,000 therms of natural gas.

To put these numbers into perspective, PMI saved enough energy to power 644 homes in the Bloomer area for an entire year. Alternatively, these energy savings could charge approximately 325.5 million cell phones, a remarkable achievement that highlights PMI’s commitment to sustainability.

At the heart of PMI's success in energy conservation is its longstanding partnership with Focus on Energy. This Wisconsin-based program provides technical assistance and financial incentives to help businesses reduce energy use and costs. PMI has been a dedicated participant in the program, consistently seeking ways to improve its energy efficiency.

In fact, PMI’s latest expansion project, which wrapped up in 2023, received a $20,000 incentive from Focus on Energy. This project included the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting, VFD air compressors, air compressor heat recovery systems, and VFDs for exhaust fans. The energy-efficient choices PMI made, thanks to the guidance and support of Focus on Energy, have had a lasting impact on the company’s bottom line and environmental footprint.

According to Focus on Energy’s Business Portfolio manager Mike Plunkett, PMI’s dedication to energy efficiency goes beyond individual projects. "This didn't come down to one project, though,” Plunkett said. “Over the years, PMI has been a very enthusiastic and active participant in Focus on Energy. These results show that PMI has a lasting commitment to efficiency and sustainability."

PMI's dedication to energy efficiency is not limited to its internal operations. The company is also deeply involved in the Bloomer community, supporting local initiatives such as the food pantry, the Bloomer Police Department, and area schools. This strong connection to the community has helped PMI create lasting relationships and foster a sense of pride in its employees and stakeholders.

Wisconsin District 23 State Senator Jesse James highlighted the importance of PMI’s contributions.

"That is mind-blowing. When you hear about stuff like that, James said. “Partnerships and collaborations with PMI are very exciting to see, especially with the future in mind, including our children’s upbringing and making everything efficient and stable."

Additionally, PMI’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency has set a positive example for other local businesses. The company’s success with Focus on Energy has inspired other businesses in the Bloomer area, such as Catalytic Combustion, AJ Manufacturing, GVS Filtration, Insulated Glass, and the Golden Calf Company, to pursue their own energy efficiency initiatives. This ripple effect has contributed to a culture of energy conservation and sustainability in the small community of just over 3,700 residents.

As PMI looks to the future, the company remains committed to its core values of innovation, energy efficiency, and community engagement. PMI’s dedication to reducing its energy consumption has not only helped the company thrive but has also created a positive impact on the environment and the local community. With each new expansion and upgrade, PMI continues to prioritize sustainable practices that not only benefit its operations but also contribute to a healthier environment and a stronger community.