Moonrise Winery merges the artistry of winemaking with the power of solar energy, setting a new standard for sustainable vineyards.
Nestled in the serene landscape of Watervilet, Michigan, Moonrise Winery stands as a testament to the Zabadal family's dedication to the art of winemaking. With a legacy built on passion, precision, and an unwavering commitment to quality, the Zabadals have perfected 13 exceptional wines that delight connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Each bottle produced at Moonrise Winery is a reflection of the family's meticulous attention to detail and their deep-rooted connection to the vineyard and its natural surroundings.
The Zabadal family's journey is marked by a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Their winemaking process respects time-honored techniques while embracing modern advancements to enhance the quality and sustainability of their wines. This unique approach has not only earned them a loyal following but also positioned Moonrise Winery as a beacon of excellence in the winemaking community.
In a bold move towards sustainability, the Zabadal family has taken significant strides to reduce their environmental footprint by implementing a 12.80kW roof-mounted solar array. This forward-thinking initiative underscores their commitment to preserving the natural beauty of their surroundings and ensuring the long-term viability of their vineyard.
The decision to adopt solar power was driven by a desire to achieve energy independence and minimize the environmental impact of their operations. By harnessing the power of the sun, Moonrise Winery not only reduces its reliance on non-renewable energy sources but also sets a powerful example for other vineyards to follow. This transition to solar energy aligns perfectly with the Zabadal family's vision of a sustainable future, where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously.
Winemaking is an intricate and seasonally driven craft, with certain times of the year demanding significantly more energy to power operations. Harvest season and fermentation, in particular, require substantial energy inputs to ensure the highest quality of wine production. Recognizing these heightened energy demands, the Zabadals sought a solution that could meet their needs without compromising their commitment to sustainability.
By understanding the cyclical nature of winemaking, the Zabadals were able to identify periods of peak energy use and tailor their solar energy strategy accordingly. This strategic approach not only addresses the immediate energy requirements of the winery but also ensures a consistent and reliable energy supply throughout the year. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining the rhythm of their winemaking process and supporting the continued production of their exceptional wines.
To achieve their sustainability goals, Moonrise Winery partnered with Harvest Solar, a team renowned for their expertise in renewable energy solutions. The Harvest Solar team conducted a thorough assessment of the winery's unique energy needs, taking into account the seasonal fluctuations in energy consumption. This careful evaluation led to the recommendation and installation of a 12.80kW roof-mounted solar array, seamlessly integrated onto the south-facing roof of the winery.
The solar array not only meets the winery's energy demands during the most intensive periods but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property with its sleek design and stunning views of the landscape. The system's nameplate capacity of 12.80kWdc is estimated to generate approximately 16,746kWh per year, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source that supports the Zabadal family's winemaking endeavors.
The transition to solar power has yielded significant long-term benefits for Moonrise Winery, both financially and environmentally. The solar array has resulted in $2,104 of annual cost savings, with projected savings on utility bills amounting to $128,191 over 30 years. These financial savings provide a solid return on investment, further enhanced by the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit and USDA Reap Grant, which has reduced the ROI period to just four years.
Beyond the financial advantages, the environmental impact of the solar array is substantial. The estimated CO2 offset is equivalent to the emissions from 360,193 pounds of coal saved, underscoring the positive contribution of Moonrise Winery's sustainability efforts. By embracing solar power, the Zabadal family has not only secured the future of their vineyard but also set a compelling example of how tradition and innovation can come together to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.