Radiance Solar Completes 100 kW Solar Power System at Providence Hill Farm in Jasper, GA

GAINESVILLE, Ga. - Feb. 28, 2014 - PRLog -- Radiance Solar announced completion of a 100 kW solar photovoltaic system at Providence Hill Farm in Jasper, Georgia.  The solar installation will supply nearly 100% of the poultry operation’s electricity needs.

The roof-mounted system is installed on two of eight poultry houses, and will generate more than 130,000 kWh of power annually. The 333 solar modules are made by Suniva, an Atlanta, Georgia based company.  Amicalola EMC interconnected the system on February 18^th, 2014, and it is the largest solar power system in the utility’s service area.

“The financial benefits of installing solar are undeniable and the notion that we will be able to supply almost all of our power brings a significant advantage to our business for the long term” according to Dan English, Providence Hill Farm owner.

The adoption of solar among agricultural businesses is quickly growing as the cost of solar continues to drop. In addition, agricultural operations are eligible for USDA grants that support investments in renewable energy (Rural Energy of America Program, or REAP).  For the poultry industry, the prospect of achieving greater certainty over energy expense is also a very attractive benefit.  Providence Hill Farm received a 25% USDA grant for the project, as well as a 30% Federal Tax Credit.

“The potential of solar for the agricultural market is huge,” said Sam Hilley, Account Manager at Radiance Solar. “With lower costs and incentives, we are now able to offer our clients a two to five year payback and significant long-term savings over the 30 year life of the system.”

Also partnering on this project is the Bank of North Georgia, a long-standing supporter of the poultry industry and newcomer to the solar market.

Lewis Cline, SVP at Bank of North Georgia added “It was with great pleasure that Bank of North Georgia could team up with Daniel English and Radiance Solar to complete the project.  There are so many benefits that can be realized by the end user in the poultry industry, including savings on their high utility bills that increases cash flow for the grower.”

Faculty members from the Poultry Science Departments at Auburn University and The University of Georgia will be visiting the farm on February 28^th.  They will be monitoring the system closely for the purpose of educating poultry famers throughout the southeast on the benefits of integrating solar power into poultry farm operations.

About Radiance Solar:  Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Radiance Solar is a leading solar contractor, specializing in the design, installation and maintenance of solar energy systems.  Their mission is to bring low-cost, reliable solar energy within reach of every electricity user through a relentless commitment to innovative design, aggressive procurement and efficient construction techniques. http://radiancesolar.com

About Providence Hill Farm:  Providence Hill Farm is an eight house poultry growing operation based in Jasper, Georgia.  The farm is owned by Daniel English, and grows and sells flocks for Pilgrim’s Pride.

About Bank of North Georgia:  Bank of North Georgia is a division of Synovus Bank.  Synovus Bank is chartered in the state of Georgia and operates under multiple trade names across the Southeast.

Contact: Mitch Leff, (404) 861-4769, mitch@leffassociates.com