Problem
Wine making can be an expensive process. From farming, to production, to bottling, and sales, electric usage at the vineyard can add up. Additionally, Unionville has decided they would like to proceed in the most healthy and thoughtful way possible. Their mission is to be thoughtful in how they grow, how they sell, and in doing so are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Unionville wanted to do something to positively contribute to the environment while taking advantage of reduced energy bills.
Solution
Result
By installing a solar array the site became a truly green operation, meeting Ken’s goals by powering the business with clean energy. The system reached its return on investment in year four and has collected over $150,000 worth of SREC income since being installed in 2013. The ground mounted array allowed for a system to offset the majority of the usage and allow the geothermal heating and cooling system to operate without additional costs.
Overall Solar Experience
“The sales people were professional and quick to respond … We are going to take the savings from the reduced energy bills and SRECs, and that’s going to go to better farming practices.”
– -John Cifelli, General Manager.
