Occidental Arts and Ecology Center installs 124 kW solar system with 540 kWh battery storage on their 80-acre farm, creating a resilient microgrid for rural Northern California.
Occidental, CA – August 27 — Occidental Arts and Ecology Center (OAEC), in partnership with RE-volv and Vital Energy Solutions, has completed installation of a 124 kW solar array with 540 kWh battery storage on their 80-acre permaculture education farm. The 270-panel system includes EV chargers on a carport and will meet 100% of OAEC's current energy needs plus projected growth. Over 25 years, the organization expects to save more than $2 million on electricity costs.
The microgrid enables grid disconnection during wildfires and power outages — critical for rural resilience in Northern California. The savings allow OAEC to redirect funds toward their core mission of supporting environmental education and cultural diversity initiatives.
"Solar power is a good answer to a bunch of questions — how we can create our own electricity, build community resilience, and lower our carbon footprint," said Dave Henson, OAEC's Executive Director.
Vital Energy Solutions, serving the North Bay since 1971, designed and built the system. RE-volv provided clean energy financing supported by The Schmidt Family Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, Candide's Afterglow Climate Justice Fund, and OTTWAY grants.
"Thousands of visitors learning about sustainable design here will hopefully replicate these concepts in their own communities," said Andreas Karelas, RE-volv's Executive Director, highlighting the educational ripple effect of the installation.