SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vista Solar announces the completion of a 1.1 megawatt solar solution for Classic Salads in Watsonville, CA. The solar solution at Classic Salads is one the largest ground mount system in Monterey County. An additional 33.8kW was also installed at Classic Salads' Salinas office.
The ground mount system in Watsonville, which was designed and installed by Vista Solar, is expected to offset Classic Salads' electricity bill by over 50 percent, and generate more than 1.75 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year – that's equivalent to the carbon sequestered by 30,941 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.
"Solar was a smart move for us financially," said owner Lance Batistich, "especially with PG &E rates continually on the rise." Classic Salads is expected to save nearly $190,000 in the first year of operation alone.
"It is rewarding to support the agricultural community with sustainable, renewable energy," says Vista Solar's Senior Project Developer Brian Brogan.
With more than 25 years of farming and 15 years of value-added processing experience, Classic Salads has risen to become one of the fastest growing companies in fresh-cut salad industry. Classic Salads specializes in gourmet baby-leaf salads for restaurants and supermarkets, with both organic and conventional varieties.
"Vista Solar was an excellent partner," said Batistich, "they finished the project on time and on budget."
The solar energy components for the Watsonville ground mount system include 3,440 Suniva 325-watt solar panels, SMA Tri-Power inverters, and AP Alternatives racking.
About Classic Salads
Established in 2000 by long-time Salinas Valley farmer Lance Batistich, Classic Salads is a leader in the production and distribution of gourmet baby leaf salads and specialty vegetables. Their products are 100% US grown using the highest industry standards for processing and food safety. From gourmet salads and baby vegetables, Classic Salads delivers nature's best, farm fresh. For more information, visit www.classicsalads.com.
About Vista Solar
Vista Solar is a California commercial solar electric design and installation firm, which specializes in analyzing commercial and agricultural utility rate structures and optimizing solar system designs to generate the maximum energy bill savings for clients. With over 100 solar installations and +20 megawatts of solar power systems installed across California, Vista Solar has a demonstrated ability to deliver solar solutions that generate dependable energy production and significant long-term financial benefits. For more information, visit www.vista-solar.com and follow Vista Solar on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.
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