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SolarCraft Completes Installation of Solar Electric System on New Merryvale Vineyard's Production Facility

Posted on: Tuesday, 12 December 2006, 12:01 CST

Novato-based SolarCraft Services announced today that it has completed installation and commissioned a 277kW solar electric system for Starmont Winery by Merryvale's new production facility at Stanly Ranch in Napa, CA.

The new system will enable Merryvale Vineyards to generate enough clean electricity each day to power 78 average homes. The new system will spare the air nearly 473 tons of harmful greenhouse gases annually. Over the next 30 years, the air pollution saved will be equivalent to driving over 32 million miles. The system will pay for itself in approximately 6 years.

The SolarCraft PV system will provide 90-100% of the winery's electricity needs on an annual basis for the company's 60,000 square foot building.

Merryvale's foremost reason for installing the PV system is to utilize green energy. "Solar energy is good for the environment and the reduction of greenhouse gases is good for the community," said Alex Gunst of Pound Co., the construction project manager for Merryvale's new facility. "With rising energy costs and the generous rebates currently offered, going solar was an easy decision." Gunst was instrumental in choosing SolarCraft for the job. He said SolarCraft was selected to design and install the project because of the company's reputation and over two decades of longevity in the marketplace. "SolarCraft was very flexible and their professional manner worked for us."

About Merryvale Vineyards

Merryvale's existing winery is located at 1000 Main Street, St. Helena, CA. The first winery built in the Napa Valley following the repeal of Prohibition, Merryvale is located in the heart of America's premier wine region. Graced with a European fountain and formal grounds, the historic winery is ideally located just 1/4 mile south of downtown St. Helena, Napa Valley -- adjacent to renowned Tra Vigne restaurant and within easy walking distance of many other restaurants and shops.

Sumptuous Bordeaux varietal grapes (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) contribute to the legend that is 'Profile' -- Merryvale's exclusive red blend. Merryvale has the privilege of selecting the highest quality grapes from many outstanding Napa Valley vineyards.

Merryvale's Starmont label include classic varietal wines Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Merryvale Vineyards tasting in St. Helena is open daily for tastings from 10am to 6:30pm.

SolarCraft is one of the most experienced solar energy contractors and retailer in Northern California. Owners, Bill Stewart and Dennis Nuttman, founded SolarCraft in 1984. For more than 22 years the certified "Marin County Green Business" has been providing Solar Thermal and Solar Electric services including consulting, design, sales, installation and maintenance. SolarCraft has installed more than 4,000 solar energy systems in Northern California that account for over a million square feet of solar energy collectors. Every year, SolarCraft installed energy systems save customers $6.5 million and eliminate more than 24,000 tons of greenhouse gasses. For more information, contact Chris Bunas, SolarCraft's VP of PV Systems, at (415) 382-7717. www.solarcraft.com / CBUNAS@solarcraft.com

Source: Business Wire

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