Description:

From 60 acres of farmland and extensive greenhouses, Rents Due Ranch of Stanwood, WA supplies organic field-grown vegetables and bedding plants to co-op food stores and farmers markets throughout Western Washington. Farmer Mike learned about the possibility of getting a USDA grant to help pay for a solar system at a local workshop sponsored by USDA and Snohomish County. Using the solar design prepared by Fire Mountain Solar and our assistance on the technical aspects of the application form, Mike applied for the USDA grant in spring 2015 and it was awarded in the fall. This 88 panel, 24.64 KW system was installed during the pouring winter rain of that year after a new roof was put on the south side of this barn that holds pumpkins in September and October annually. The solar system offsets about 75% of the farm's electric bill and powers greenhouse fans, refrigeration and a small office.

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