Winemaking Operations Now Powered by the Sun
Novato-based SolarCraft announced the completion of a 32 kW solar electric system at Goldeneye Winery in Philo, CA. The winery, in the heart of Mendocino's Andersen Valley, is now powered by the sun.
The 32 kW solar electric system at Goldeneye consists of 144 SunPower 225 watt solar panels that will power Goldeneye's winemaking operations with renewable, green energy. The roof-mounted system spans 2,100 square feet and is expected to generate 48,670 kilowatt hours annually. The solar panels provide clean electricity while insulating and protecting the roof. The added insulation saves energy by reducing the building's heating and cooling load.
"Because Goldeneye is dedicated to crafting world-class Pinot Noir from the Anderson Valley, our relationship with the environment is extremely important to us," says Courtney Dyar, Operations Manager for Duckhorn Wine Company. "As a result, when we set out to design and build a cutting-edge, energy-efficient winery, incorporating solar was a major part of our design criterion. Not only does the array SolarCraft installed for us sustainably address our energy usage, it also helps to mitigate our impact on the Earth in a way that reflects our identity, and our commitment to the Anderson Valley."
The new system will enable Goldeneye Winery to generate enough clean electricity each day to power over 14 average homes. It will spare the air nearly 25 tons of harmful greenhouse gases annually. Over the next 30 years, the air pollution saved will be equivalent to driving over 1.7 million miles. The system will pay for itself in approximately 6 years.
