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Trinchero Family Estates Completes Installation of Solar Energy Systems at New State-of-the-Art Winemaking Facilities

Posted on: Wednesday, 21 January 2009, 08:00 CST

ST. HELENA, Calif., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Trinchero Family Estates has completed the installation of a $5.3 million photovoltaic (PV) solar energy system at its new state-of-the-art winemaking facility in Lodi and nearby vineyard in Clements, Calif. The new systems were an investment from the outset of the facility construction, and are specifically designed to help power the Lodi winemaking facility and power the irrigation pumps at its Clements vineyard. The solar systems are representative of Trinchero Family Estates' pioneering and continual efforts to be environmentally and economically sustainable.

Combined, the PV arrays at the two sites will generate approximately 1.1 million kilowatt-hours of electricity -- enough to meet the annual needs of approximately 2,034 California homes. This system exemplifies Trinchero Family Estates' initiatives to reduce using traditional energy sources and harness natural, renewable power sources. The PV solar energy systems produce zero emissions and because the solar arrays are part of the original building design, the systems required no additional construction, thus greatly reducing labor costs by streamlining the overall building process.

"When we launched the construction of the Lodi facility, sustainability and environmental conservation were the focal points of the design," said Bob Torres, Principal and Senior Vice President of Operations. "We strive to be environmental pioneers and aim to set industry standards in sustainable farming, waste reduction, water conservation, recycling and energy efficiency. We hope that other industry leaders can see the short and long term benefits of these systems and incorporate green initiatives into their winemaking practices as well."

Premier Power led the development, permitting design, construction, and commissioning of the project, which started in June and was completed last month. At the new, highly automated winemaking facility in Lodi, PV systems were installed on the rooftops of all three buildings. The PV solar system at the Clements vineyard is designed to offset 100 percent of the facility's electric bill for two pump meters used to move water in and out of an irrigation pond.

The Trinchero Family's ongoing sustainability efforts integrate environmentally conscientious practices throughout winemaking and company operations. The company has been honored for eight consecutive years by the California Integrated Waste Management Board with the Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP). Trinchero Family Estates' continuing environmental programs include sustainable vineyard practices, recycled water usage, development of earth-friendly wine packaging materials, and recycling programs. Trinchero Family Estates is a member of the national Climate Wise Program, an EPA-sponsored organization that promotes the reduction of greenhouse gases.

Trinchero Family Estates is wholly owned and operated by the Trinchero family, Napa Valley vintners since 1948. The company produces more than 23 brands of wine including Sutter Home, Trinchero Napa Valley, Napa Cellars, Terra d'Oro, Montevina, Trinity Oaks, Folie a Deux, Menage a Trois, and the number one alcohol-removed wine, Fre. They also import Angove Vineyards and Little Boomey wines of Australia, and market and sell the Three Thieves and Bandit brands.

SOURCE Trinchero Family Estates

Source: PR Newswire

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