Discover how Rave Associates is leading the way in sustainable energy with their state-of-the-art solar project.
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For over 40 years, Rave Associates has proudly served southeastern Michigan, establishing itself as a leader in beer and wine distribution. Known for their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, they have built a reputation for excellence in the region. Their facility's energy demands are significant, particularly for the large cold storage rooms essential for maintaining product freshness. This makes their recent venture into solar energy a natural extension of their dedication to operational efficiency and sustainability.
Rave Associates' decision to adopt solar energy underscores their forward-thinking approach. By integrating clean, renewable energy into their operations, they are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also setting a benchmark for other businesses in the industry.
The journey towards a greener future began with a comprehensive analysis of Rave Associates' energy usage and rate structure. Christian Groesbeck spearheaded this initiative, meticulously evaluating the financial advantages of onsite solar. Collaborating closely with Rave Associates' leadership team, multiple design options were considered, ultimately leading to the selection of a 198.8kWdc flush-mounted, non-penetrating solar array.
The south-facing roof of Rave Associates' facility provided an optimal spot for the solar panels, ensuring maximum energy generation without consuming additional space. This strategic placement was crucial in optimizing the system's efficiency and output. The project was designed to support future expansions, reflecting Rave Associates' growth trajectory and commitment to sustainability.
The installed solar array boasts a nameplate capacity of 198.8kWdc, designed to generate approximately 224,740kWh per year. This robust system is tailored to optimize Level 2 interconnection with DTE, effectively offsetting the majority of the building's annual energy consumption.
A key feature of this installation is its flush-mounted, non-penetrating design, which not only preserves the structural integrity of the roof but also simplifies future maintenance. Additionally, the electrical infrastructure was upsized to support potential system expansions, ensuring that Rave Associates can seamlessly scale their renewable energy capacity as their operations grow.
The financial implications of this solar project are substantial. With an estimated $28,038 in annual cost savings, Rave Associates is experiencing immediate economic benefits. Over a 30-year period, the projected savings on utility bills amount to an impressive $1,200,428.
To further enhance the project's financial viability, Rave Associates factored in a 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit and Accelerated Depreciation. These incentives reduced the return on investment (ROI) period to just 7.3 years, making the project not only an environmentally responsible choice but a financially sound one as well.
The environmental benefits of this solar array are equally noteworthy. The system is estimated to offset CO2 emissions equivalent to those produced by burning 4,833,858 pounds of coal. This significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions aligns with Rave Associates' commitment to sustainability and their role as environmental stewards in the community.
Looking ahead, Rave Associates is well-positioned to continue their expansion into renewable energy. The upsized electrical infrastructure ensures that future system expansions can be accommodated with ease, allowing them to further reduce their operational costs. As Rave Associates continues to grow, their investment in solar energy stands as a testament to their dedication to sustainable business practices.
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