Horse & Dragon Brewing
Sandbox Solar, LLC
Xcel Energy
Fort Collins, CO
Brewery
Rooftop
43 kW
60,395 kWh
IQ8P-3P
Gasoline saved: 115,865 gallons
47%
$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!"