Promises Kept Equine Retirement Farm is going “Green”
Richard and Gayle Beller of Promises Kept Farm have had a new 1,500 watt, hybrid wind/solar system installed which will provide lighting for the barn’s main center isle.
"We think there are a lot of people out there like us, who need to reduce their energy costs, and are looking for any practical, cost effective alternative.” said Rich.
Using both solar and wind to charge two heavy duty batteries, the new system should be more than ample to keep the few dozen compact florescent lights going that are in the barn’s center isle, grooming area, and even in the indoor arena when needed.
The system was designed and installed by Frank Patterson of the Lightup Company in Summit, NY. Adding value to his services, Frank conducted a complete energy audit prior to designing the new alternative energy system. “Based on Frank’s recommendation we decided that this unit would be our initial step toward using alternative energy” said Rich.
As part of the system, Frank also installed motion detectors in the center isle, which not only conserve consumption, but allow the convenience of having light whenever someone walks into the barn during the day. Frank also pointed out how Rich and Gayle could cut their energy consumption drastically but insulating the heated water troughs, and running the arena lights independently from the rest of the barn. “Alternative energy solutions do not come cheap, but altogether by implementing the changes Frank suggested, and other conservation measures, we’ve actually cut our electric usage by 33% - 50% from the same period last year.”
“Not only does this system reduce our energy draw from the grid, it provides added value in that the barn lights will be on, even if the electric goes out in our area”, said Gayle. “This past December, when we had that ice storm, we were without electric for three days. But the lights were on in barn for us to clean stalls and groom the horses”.
PROMISES KEPT FARM offers full board services, including daily turnout to acres of wooden fenced-in pasture, indoor turnout during inclement weather, routine grooming, and "care and attention."
Information about the services at Promises Kept, or the new wind/solar system can be obtained from Gayle or Rich Beller at Promises Kept Farm, 2588 State Route 10, Summit, N.Y. 12175 or by phone at 518-287-1870 or on the internet at www.promiseskept.org
|
