Winery installs solar tracking system

PASO ROBLES, CALIF.: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines today unveils the largest solar tracking array in the North American wine industry, a three-acre, state-of-the-art, 756 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) single-axis tracking system designed to offset 75 percent of the winery's energy usage at its Paso Robles operations.

The new, ground-mounted installation is comprised of 4,320 PV modules that track the sun from east to west on a daily basis to optimize production of solar-generated electricity. The system was designed and installed by Denver-Colo.-based Conergy.

"J. Lohr has an impressive track record of environmental responsibility, and by both adopting sustainable practices and being willing to share its experience with others, is helping to expand the California wine industry's widespread sustainability movement," said Allison Jordan, executive director for CSWA, the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

J. Lohr will now be operating the largest solar PV tracking array by a winery in North America. As a result of this installation, the energy generated from J. Lohr's system will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 29,887 tons over 25 years. In practical terms, this is equivalent to planting 512 acres of trees or eliminating the air pollution that comes from driving 97 million road miles.

"With numerous sunny days, Paso Robles isn't just ideal for producing rich and flavorful Bordeaux and Rhône-style wines," said Steve Lohr, senior vice president of planning and development with J. Lohr, "It is also perfect for producing clean, renewable energy. Owning our own solar tracking array is another important step in our commitment to environmentally-conscious practices. In our own way, we are working to protect the very climate that nurtures our grapes, while contributing to efforts that reduce the need for drilling off our spectacular coast."

"With a strong, credible voice among industry professionals and a powerful commitment to environmental stewardship, J. Lohr recognized the importance of setting an example for the wine industry, for other energy-intensive businesses, and the public at large," said Conergy Product Developer Michael DeSousa.

"By investing in this bellwether system, J. Lohr becomes more energy independent and will enjoy more predictable energy costs for decades to come," DeSousa added.