News Release — SunCommon
December 13, 2016
Contact:
Emily McManamy, SunCommon
882-8653
WILLIAMSTOWN, Vt. – Local gas station and grocery Pump & Pantry of Williamstown is going green. Business owner Sam Adams worked with SunCommon of Waterbury to install a 200-panel rooftop solar array as a means of cutting costs and strengthening his business by generating clean, local energy on-site.
“People probably think it’s odd for a gas station to claim to be environmentally friendly,” said Sam Adams, owner of Pump & Pantry. “We went solar because we have a duty to do what we can to be responsible stewards of the environment. Gasoline is a necessity of life here in rural Vermont – we accept that. But, it doesn’t mean we can’t do what we can to be more energy and fuel-efficient.”
Pump & Pantry’s refrigeration draws large amounts of electricity, up to $4000 per month. Adams chose to shift his power needs to a renewable source like solar to decrease and stabilize his energy costs.
“I’m willing to go green, but I’ve got to save some green in the process. Going solar accomplished great environmental goals, but it also made great financial sense. I said yes to solar because it’s good for my bottom line,” said Adams.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar power is a great economic driver for the local economy. Solar-powered businesses enjoy reduced operating costs and are protected from unpredictable, rising utility costs. “Businesses can save money by not needing to maintain the same capacity to borrow to cover unexpected changes in utility bills. When local businesses benefit from clean energy investments, the savings associated with their lower energy consumption or on-site generation can help to further expand the local economy.”
In central Vermont, local economic development organizations recognize the impact of Pump & Pantry’s decision to go solar. “We applaud local investment in small communities, and the commitment shown to develop renewable energy resources,” said Jamie Stewart, Executive Director of the Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation.
“I want to congratulate Pump & Pantry on the decision to make this kind of investment in their energy future,” said Bill Moore, President of Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce.
“This shows forward thinking by both Sam and the business to help reduce their energy costs and get engaged with new technology keeping them operational well into the future. It’s smart to make use of cutting edge technology to benefit the business.”
Despite Vermont’s small population size, the state is leading the charge on solar, ranking 16th nationally for installed solar capacity, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Understanding Vermonters’ interest in the environment and clean energy, Adams hopes to further engage with his customers through solar citing his solar array as a conversation starter.
“People have noticed the array and commented that it’s a good thing to do. We’re proud of that. Maybe our solar array will encourage folks to stop in and shop with us. I think it helps keep our business at the forefront of the technological curve,” said Adams.
“More than ever, consumers are aware of the choices and behaviors that impact our environment,” said Erin Sigrist, President of The Vermont Retail & Grocers Association. “Sam’s work reinforces Pump & Pantry’s dedication to their customers and long-term sustainability.”
SunCommon has built a market-driven solution to climate change by making solar easy and affordable for homeowners and businesses alike. SunCommon’s mission is to repower Vermont with clean energy by tearing down the barriers to renewable energy.
“SunCommon is focused on solving tomorrow’s energy issues and that mission fosters innovation,” said Tom Berry, SunCommon’s VP of Marketing. “While installing thousands of small solar installations at Vermont homes, we recognized Vermont’s small business economy was seeking a way to join the rooftop revolution. We’re proud to help our fellow local businesses like Pump & Pantry find their clean energy future.”
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