Delvin Farms Goes 100% Solar
Just in time for strawberry season, we commissioned two solar systems at Delvin Farms in College Grove, TN. Delvin Farms specializes in growing organic vegetables, and you can find them at 5 farmers markets around Nashville. Additionally, they prepare 600-800 boxes of produce per week for their 800 member CSA!
In April, LightWave Solar installed 122 solar panels on two farm buildings, totaling 32 kilowatts. Delvin Farms’ solar systems offset 100% of the farm’s electric use.
“We kicked around the idea of solar for years, and now that costs have fallen, we decided it was time,” says Hank Delvin. “We did it to reduce our electric bills and for philosophical reasons, mainly to be energy neutral and create our own energy,” he explains.
It doesn’t hurt that Delvin Farms’ customers love solar, too. Delvin Farms posted photos of their system on Facebook, and the response was clear – 350 Likes!
“Our customers really appreciate the fact that we installed solar,” says Delvin. “They think it is absolutely fabulous,” he adds.
Delvin Farms obtained a solar project loan through BB&T, and the farm applied for a USDA REAP grant.
“Even without the grant, solar is a really good return on investment,” says Delvin. “I wish more people would do it,” he says.
LightWave Solar and Delvin Farms will be at the 12 South Farmers Market on May 10.
