Verde Valley AZ – A leading advocate for thriving life-enriching programs and exceptional housing for the neurodiversity community, Rainbow Acres has decided to harvest enough solar energy to generate about 95% of its current energy usage. This will demonstrate a robust commitment to environmental stewardship, energy independence and long-term financial stability.
This is an energy generation milestone for the organization. Rainbow Acres’ solar generation project will provide positive cash flow beginning in the first year and increasing each following year. CO2 emissions savings will total 500 Cubic tons per year. This is the equivalent of driving over 1.3 million in a typical internal combustion vehicle every year.
Rainbow Acres has contracted Obodo Energy Partners, LLC (“Obodo”). Obodo is an Arizona-based energy services company that develops, designs, implements, and maintains energy solutions focused on decarbonization and economic benefits for their customers. Founder & CEO, John Mitman stated, “We leveraged a proven track record using our design-build, financial, and portfolio development expertise for K-12 and municipal customers to make this project happen.”
To put this in perspective, 487.34 kilowatts of solar photovoltaics will be spread across nine (9) meters including the community center, equestrian center, office building, and six (6) Rancher residences. “After 10 years, we will be saving about $140K per year. The panels are high-end commercial panels that should last 30 years. After 20 years, they should be 95-97% effective,” said Rainbow Acres President & CEO, Mike Prochelo.
Mitman also stated, “Our holistic approach to on-site energy infrastructure improvements is a key differentiating factor of our firm in addition to an unparalleled base of commercial solar-storage experience in Arizona. We are proud to support wonderful organizations like Rainbow Acres in achieving their sustainability goals.”
In the first year of operation, the newly installed solar energy systems will generate an impressive 800,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh). This substantial energy production offsets 95% of the current annual energy demands on the monitored meters, marking a pivotal step towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Prochelo stated, “Our strategic approach to integrating multiple solar systems (rooftop and covered parking structures) has not only proven to be financially prudent but also incredibly effective in reducing our environmental footprint. This decision exemplifies our commitment to sustainability and serves as a model for other organizations to follow.” This long-term investment will stabilize the cost of a very large expense item for many years to come.
Rainbow Acres will be reaching out to the community to provide opportunities to support this exciting project. Contributions to our Annual Fund and Adopt-A-Rancher programs are tax-deductible. The successful completion of this solar energy project will set a shining example of what our community can achieve. For more information, please contact us directly at www.rainbowacres.org.