MyNorth News Service

(Press Release provided by Chateau Chantal)

OLD MISSION PENINSULA, TRAVERSE CITY: Perched high on a ridge overlooking Grand Traverse Bay, Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn will soon offset approximately 40% of their energy needs with a new 148.5 kW solar array by Harvest Energy Solutions. The array’s annual production of 172,351 kW is equivalent to saving CO2 emissions from the electricity use of 18.2 homes for one year.

This is the largest solar install at a Michigan winery. All aspects of the project are based in Michigan, with the winery in Traverse City, and design, install, and racking manufactured by Harvest Energy Solutions out of Jackson. Harvest Energy Solutions expects to break ground near the end of April and throw the switch near Memorial Day of this year. A media invite to the event will be extended closer to the completion date.

Chateau Chantal has been awarded a MEDC Pure Michigan Business Connect grant which provides matching funds up to $50,000 to companies in need of addressing technology gaps with innovative resources or solutions from another Michigan-based company. Further financing may come from a USDA REAP grant that could cover up to 25% of the project costs.

“At Chateau Chantal, we’ve been incredibly lucky to steward this amazing property on Old Mission Peninsula. Installing a large scale solar array is one more way we can reflect our commitment to a healthy environment. Our vineyard has been MAEAP (Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program) certified for 8 years and we ceased application of chemical fertilizers in our vineyard 10 years ago. We’ve been very conscientious of our natural beauty and understand that it is a major reason people vacation in our area. The stationary solar array will be positioned so that these stunning natural views are not affected.”

Harvest Energy Solutions leverages more than 100 years of collective commercial equipment installation experience with a renewed focus on solar photovoltaic (PV) and other renewable system designs and installations. The Harvest team has a history of over 6MW of designed & installed solar PV systems.

“We applaud Chateau Chantal for their investment in the largest solar installation at a winery in Michigan. Our partnership continues to propel Chateau Chantal on their cutting edge quest for innovation and land stewardship,” stated Harvest Energy Solution’s President, Chris Curry. “Together with Harvest Energy, they are helping to reduce our country’s carbon footprint and meet the state’s clean energy goals.”

Chateau Chantal is a unique development that combines a winery, vineyards, bed and breakfast, residence, six private home sites, and winding roads, all of which combine to create a memorable experience in Northern Hospitality. The 65 acre site sits high atop a ridge 12 miles north of Traverse City, Michigan on the beautiful and historic Old Mission Peninsula. Chateau Chantal crafts many styles of wine, allowing the grape to dictate the style. The location’s unparalleled views and outstanding staff play host to B&B activities, cooking classes, wine education opportunities, Sensory Tours, conferences and meetings, small weddings, and friendly regional wine events. For more information visit www.chateauchantal.com or call 231.223.4110.

Harvest Energy Solutions is a full-service distributor and installer of renewable and energy saving products, specializing in rural, agricultural and commercial energy solutions throughout the Midwest. Since 2006, Harvest Energy’s goal has been to assist farmers and ranchers, businesses and home owners, in becoming more sustainable, efficient and independent with renewable energy. Our products include solar, wind, HVLS fans, agricultural lighting, log cabins and storm shelters. For more info visit www.HarvestEnergySolutions.com or call 1-877-788-0220.