New Sonoma Valley storage facility with solar system, built through county financing program, to celebrate opening

A new storage business, powered by solar panels and financed through Sonoma County’s Energy Independence Program, has opened in Sonoma Valley.

The newly built Vineburg Self Storage worked with SolarCraft, a local Sonoma County Contractor, to install a 113.2 kW system that is expected to provide more than 95 percent of their electrical demand. The system consists of 298 high-efficiency 380kW solar panels that are roof-mounted on the southern end of the building.

“Installing solar was an easy decision,” said owner Greg Van Cleave. “Not only will we save money by generating our own power, but we can feel good about our contribution to reducing greenhouse gases in the community.”

The solar electric system will offset 116 metric tons of carbon dioxide every year. This impact is equivalent to removing 25 cars off the road or the pollutants removed by planting 142 acres of trees annually.

The county’s Energy Independence Program allows property owners to finance permanent energy, water, wildfire safety and seismic improvements.  The program, offered through the county’s General Services Department’s Energy and Sustainability Division, has been available since March 2009 and has funded more than 4,560 residential and commercial projects, many of which have been solar. With 10- and 20-year terms, the financing helps to make improvements more accessible and affordable.

“I am proud that our county provides financing for companies to achieve their energy goals,” said Lynda Hopkins, Chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “Vineburg's low electricity bills and reduced carbon footprint is a win for both their business operation and the community as a whole.”

To celebrate the opening of the facility, the public is invited to join Vineburg Self Storage and the Sonoma Chamber for a system dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec. 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 1010 Napa Road, Sonoma.

Visit https://members.sonomachamber.org/event-calendar/Details/vineburg-wine-and-self-storage-ribbon-cutting-476007?sourceTypeId=Website to register for the free event. Wine and refreshments will be served.

 ###

About the Energy and Sustainability Division
The Energy and Sustainability Division was established in 2006 as part of the Sonoma County General Services Department to advance efficient and sustainable government, residential and business practices in Sonoma County.

Contact Information:
Dori Estrella, General Services Department
Energy and Sustainability Division
dori.estrella@sonoma-county.org 
(707) 565-6470