Vignolo Farms/Top Brass Produce President Brett Dixon Talks Solar Energy Partnership with Tesla
DELANO, CA – As consumers demand more than just quality from their premium fruits and vegetables, fresh produce companies are putting sustainability more at the forefront of their strategies. For Vignolo Farms/Top Brass Produce this particular focus now includes a solar energy partnership with CalCom Solar, as well as high-profile tech company, Tesla.
Building off the benefits from a 1 GW solar field the company installed a couple of years ago, President Brett Dixon tells me that the partnership was a natural next step.
“Our solar field already generates around 80 percent of our coolers’ electrical needs, but by installing Tesla batteries we’re now maintaining better efficiency not only for our operations but also for the entire California energy grid system,” Brett shares.
These Tesla-made batteries store energy that is generated by the company’s solar panels, storing the energy for when Vignolo Farms needs it during peak times of usage. This arrangement makes the overall grid less taxed, and lowers overall energy demand.
“It’s more efficient for us, and for our entire system,” Brett continues. “It appears to be a win-win for everyone’s energy needs–it allows us to be better stewards of the environment, and of the land we farm.”
Top Brass Produce will start installing the batteries on its farm soon, with the process projected to continue over the next several months. Designed to work with the company’s current solar setup, Brett says that if the company adds more solar panels in the future then it will likewise add more Tesla batteries.
“We’re always looking for additional ways to reduce our carbon footprint, and better care for our land and environment,” Brett elaborates.
So, where does this sustainable focus see Vignolo Farms/Top Brass Produce headed next?
The company is increasing its acreage of certified organic land for its organic potato and grape businesses, and researching ways to ensure that continues.
With Tesla and tech making more moves into the realms of fresh produce, continue to count on AndNowUKnow for all the latest.
