Forward thinking brewery minimizes environmental footprint with Enphase

project summary
Client
Horse & Dragon Brewing
Installer
Sandbox Solar, LLC
Utility
Xcel Energy
Location
Fort Collins, CO
Industry
Brewery
Installation Type
Rooftop
solar system size
43 kW
annual solar energy production
60,395 kWh
Enphase microinverters
IQ8P-3P
estimated annual environmental benefits
Gasoline saved: 115,865 gallons
estimated annual building energy load offset
47%
estimated annual savings
$7,476
"The Enphase IQ8P-3P commercial microinverter was the right product because it matched the correct AC system size and had a 25-year warranty."

Anthoney Hunziker 

Crew Lead
Sandbox Solar

Why Solar

Since its inception, Horse & Dragon Brewing Company, a small craft brewery, has been committed to a triple bottom line approach, focusing equally on financial, social, and environmental goals.

The company follows four guiding tenets that align with these principles. One is brewing great beer; another is minimizing its environmental footprint. Going solar has long been on Horse & Dragon’s to-do list.

Sandbox Solar was selected to design and install the brewery’s solar system. The company's mission is to make solar power accessible to the community, promoting self-sufficiency and energy independence. With decades of experience, Sandbox Solar was the ideal partner to help the brewery make informed decisions about system size, product selection, and available incentives.

Companies that value community and collaborate with aligned goals typically create the strongest partnerships. Carol Cochran, CEO of Horse & Dragon Brewing, shared, “We appreciate that Sandbox Solar is operating locally, and we really like Ian’s (Sandbox Solar CEO) attitude toward the community and renewable energy."

Why Enphase

It was important to consider not only the initial costs but also the system’s production and long-term savings.

This commercial solar design with Enphase, works with the building's service voltage. The Enphase IQ8P-3P Commercial Microinverter provided the flexibility to match the appropriate AC system size, offered flexible system design, and streamlined installation.

Beyond the technical details, both the installer and the customer felt confident with the Enphase brand, known for its reliable products and strong customer service.

When asked about the solar investment, Cochran explained, “I feel very lucky that it’s going to position us to better handle the undoubted increases coming our way in terms of electricity costs. I’m psyched for it!"