In 2010, in partnership with Green Mountain Power, a 4-acre "solar orchard" was installed in a fallow field behind the Coach Barn. These 530 photovoltaic panels generate about 180,000 kilowatt hours of energy annually — enough for 25 houses. All the power generated feeds into the GMP grid. We also installed one solar tracker.
In 2017, Farm Solar LLC (a private investor), installed 720 additional panels, which had become cheaper and more efficient since 2010. Solar design practices had also changed. Through a cooperative agreement, Shelburne Farms purchases 75% of the annual power from this second array.
In addition, Shelburne Farms has an array of solar panels on the south facing roof of the Farm Barn, put up in 2009 (you can track their performance here). and agreements with two offsite solar energy suppliers.
Collectively, solar power generates more than 70% of the nonprofit's annual electrical usage.
Shelburne Farms will continue to support solar power where and when it makes sense, and is committed to seeking renewable energy strategies throughout the property, in pursuit of carbon negative status by 2028.