Subsequent events (Notes)

12 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2016

Subsequent Event [Line Items]

Subsequent Events [Text Block]

Note 20. Subsequent Events

On November 30, 2016, a business restructuring was completed to reduce costs and align production levels with current levels of demand in a manner that is consistent with the Company’s long-term strategic plan.

The Company is reducing materials spend as well as implementing various cost control initiatives. The workforce was reduced at both the North American production facility in Torrington, Connecticut, as well as at corporate offices in Danbury and remote locations. A total of 96 positions, or approximately 17% of the global workforce, was impacted. The production rate has been reduced to twenty-five megawatts annually, from the prior rate of fifty megawatts annually, in order to position for delays in anticipated order flow. A personnel-related restructuring charge of approximately $3.0 million will be incurred in fiscal year 2017, with approximately one half of the charge composed of cash severance costs and the remainder representing non-cash charges. This production level is anticipated to be temporary and will be reevaluated as order flow dictates, with any future increases being undertaken from what is now a lower cost basis.