Corley Family Harvests their Own Power
Novato and Sonoma based SolarCraft recently completed the installation of a 177 kW DC solar installation at Monticello Vineyards in Napa, CA. The photovoltaic (PV) system is expected to offset 95% of their utility bill helping Monticello save thousands every month in electrical costs.
Designed and installed by SolarCraft, a leading North Bay solar installer for over 30 years, the solar photovoltaic system is ground mounted on the east end of the property adjacent to the vineyards. The solar PV system consists of 540 high-efficiency SunPower 327-watt solar panels, designed to produce 280,000 kilowatt hours annually.
"After a very exhaustive search and after multiple interviews with customers of theirs we chose SolarCraft for our solar installation," commented Kent Corley. "From the very earliest planning phase all the way to receiving permission to operate, SolarCraft's team was with us every step of the way and we couldn't be happier with the result."
The solar power system at Monticello Vineyards represents one of the many wineries who are making the switch to solar power to reduce their electric bills while helping to protect the environment. Vintners are realizing that the sun not only ripens their grapes, but provides sustainable power to their wineries as well.
During the life of the system, almost 10 million pounds of carbon dioxide generated by the Monticello's operations will be eliminated. This impact is equivalent to removing air pollution produced by more than 17 million miles of driving over 25 years or the pollutants removed by 93 acres of trees in one year. The nearly maintenance-free system should pay for itself within 7 years.
About Monticello Vineyards
Monticello Vineyards is truly a family run winery and their first vintage dates from 1980. Jay Corley, came to Napa Valley in 1969 seeking land to plant and grow an estate vineyard. Forty plus years later, sons Kevin, Chris, Stephen and Kent manage the winery: Kevin is the Winegrower/ President, Chris is the Winemaker, Stephen is the Director of Wine Sales, and Kent handles corporate issues and special projects. It's a small winery producing approximately 15,000 cases of wine annually under the Monticello Vineyards and CORLEY labels.
