How a third-generation apple farm in Michigan leveraged solar energy to achieve significant cost savings and sustainability.
A Legacy of Innovation at Umlor Orchards
Umlor Orchards, located in Conklin, MI, is a third-generation apple farm renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. For decades, the Umlor family has cultivated a thriving apple business, continually adapting to the ever-changing agricultural landscape. Their ability to blend traditional farming methods with modern technology has been a cornerstone of their enduring success.
The Umlor family's dedication to excellence is evident in their state-of-the-art facilities, including 12 controlled atmosphere rooms for apple packing and storage. These rooms help maintain the freshness and quality of their apples but also result in high energy consumption. Recognizing the need for efficiency and sustainability, the Umlor family has consistently sought innovative solutions to meet the demands of their farm.
The Drive for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
With the unpredictability of nature and the high energy demands of their operations, Umlor Orchards knew they needed a reliable and sustainable energy solution. The increasing costs of utilities and the environmental impact of traditional energy sources made it clear that a change was necessary.
The Umlor family’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency drove them to explore renewable energy options. Solar energy emerged as the ideal solution, offering both economic benefits and a reduced environmental footprint. By transitioning to solar power, they aimed to ensure long-term energy stability and contribute positively to the environment.
Umlor Orchards Harvests the Power of the Sun with Harvest Solar
Always looking for ways to evolve in their industry, the Umlor family partnered with Harvest Solar to assess the potential of solar energy for their farm. Harvest Solar, a leader in renewable energy solutions, provided the expertise needed to make this transition seamless.
Allen Bonthuis from Harvest Solar played a pivotal role in analyzing Umlor Orchards' seasonal energy demands and designing a system that maximizes savings. Leveraging the farm's south-facing roof and open land, a 191.16kW ground and roof-mounted solar array was installed. This system was tailored to meet the specific needs of Umlor Orchards, ensuring optimal performance and cost savings.
The Financial and Environmental Impact of Solar Energy
The implementation of the 191.16kW solar array has had a profound impact on Umlor Orchards. Annually, the farm saves approximately $34,823 on utility bills, a significant reduction in operational costs. Over the next 30 years, these savings are projected to amount to $2,150,249, providing substantial financial relief and stability.
In addition to the financial benefits, the environmental impact of the solar array is equally impressive. The system is estimated to generate approximately 247,867kWh per year and offset CO2 emissions equivalent to burning 5,331,283 pounds of coal. By embracing solar energy, Umlor Orchards has significantly reduced its carbon footprint, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Lessons Learned and Future Directions
The journey of transitioning to solar energy has been an enlightening experience for Umlor Orchards. One of the key lessons learned is the importance of staying informed about new technologies and industry advancements. This proactive approach has enabled the Umlor family to remain adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges.
Looking forward, Umlor Orchards plans to continue exploring innovative solutions to enhance their farm's efficiency and sustainability. Their successful partnership with Harvest Solar serves as a model for other farms considering renewable energy. As Roger Umlor, the owner, remarked, 'The staff was always there to assist in precondition, installation, and follow up. They were happy to answer any questions and explain the process. That’s one of the qualities of Harvest Solar - Let the Sun Shine.'
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