The Cliff House Resort & Spa, consistently named one of the top meeting sites in the East, has gone solar, having installed one of Maine’s largest solar thermal projects. The installation uses 2,100 tubes on 70 collectors, 10 times the size of an average solar project. The solar installation will save an estimated 11,000 gallons of propane annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 140,000 lbs. per year.
Solar energy will be used to provide heat and hot water for the Resort’s Spa building, which includes 32 guest rooms and 10 treatment rooms. The resort estimates it will reduce fossil fuel consumption in this building by 30%.
“The beauty of Maine’s natural environment is unparalleled,” states resort owner Kathryn Weare. “Keeping it that way is one of our highest priorities, and utilizing solar energy is the largest component of our sustainability initiatives to date.”
A grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as well as federal tax credits helped offset project costs and reduce payback to less than six years.
The project was completed entirely by Maine-based businesses. General Contracting services were provided by Nelson & Small Energy Conservation Products, Inc., an affiliate of Nelson & Small, Inc., the Contractor/Installer for Kingspan Solar
The Cliff House Resort & Spa is a Maine DEP-certified Environmental Leader. Other green initiatives at the Resort include energy efficient lighting, natural cork flooring in the Spa, organic fertilizers and the use of fresh, local ingredients in its cuisine.
Owned and operated by the Weare Family since 1872, the resort is celebrating its 140th season in 2012. More information can be found at www.cliffhousemaine.com, on Facebook or by calling (207) 361-1000.
