Casella Family Brands makes a big solar switch for beverages

In its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, Casella Family Brands has switched on what is claimed to be the largest solar power facility in the Australian beverage sector. Based in Yenda, NSW, the facility will provide renewable electricity to the company’s winemaking and onsite brewery. Through 8730 solar panels, it is capable of generating 11.53 GWh of clean electricity per year.

The facility features a two-panel tracking system incorporating a smart algorithm that optimises the positioning of the solar panels to allow for maximum sun exposure and energy generation year round.

It’s not just the winery that will benefit from solar power, the facility will also power Casella Family Brands’ onsite brewery, home of the Australian Beer Company and its brands including Yenda Brewing Co., Son of a Nun and Pressman’s Cider.

John Casella, CEO of Casella Family Brands, at the company’s new solar facility in Yenda, NSW. Image credit: Vince Bucello.

The company has also invested in a second solar system, which will provide clean energy to power the wastewater treatment plant and is capable of generating 890.47 MWh of electricity per year. Consisting of 936 panels it features a fixed tilt mounting selected for maximum generation and will contribute approximately 30% of the facility’s electricity needs.

“I’m extremely proud to unveil our investment in clean electricity through our two new solar systems. As well as reducing our footprint, we are making a direct contribution to the Australian wine industry’s GHG emissions reduction goals via the products we make and supply, as we all strive to ensure a sustainable global wine sector,” said John Casella, founder and Managing Director of Casella Family Brands. 

Both solar facilities were developed and constructed by Next Generation Electrical.

Top image credit: Vince Bucello.