Kentucky’s Castle & Key Distillery has completed Phase 1 of a major solar energy project at its Versailles Warehouse, marking a significant step toward sustainable whiskey production in the Bluegrass State.
The $2 million initiative, supported by the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant, demonstrates the craft distiller’s commitment to environmental stewardship while maintaining its focus on premium spirit production.
The Solar Energy System
The first phase encompasses 20,950 square feet with 754 solar panels, generating 407.16 kW DC and 400 kW AC. When fully implemented, the system will span 63,350 square feet and generate 960kW AC.
“At Castle & Key, sustainability is woven into every part of our production process,” says Will Arvin, Co-Founder of Castle & Key. “Our solar energy investment is one of the latest steps we’re taking to reduce our environmental impact, and we are working against a 30-year planning process. This initiative reduces the distillery’s carbon footprint, lowers energy costs, and reinforces our commitment to responsible innovation. We are proud to be part of a growing movement in Kentucky, working toward a more sustainable future for our community and our industry.”
Powering the Community
The current installation utilizes 25 percent of its total solar production capacity, with excess power being sold back to Kentucky Utilities. According to Charles Crume, Engineering and Maintenance Manager at Castle & Key, “On average this will equate to 270-350 homes in the community based on average power usage.”
Future Expansion
Phase 2 of the project is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, expanding the solar panel installation. The distillery plans to continue working with partners including Walnut Grove Farms, Saverglass, Malteurop North America, Speyside Cooperage, and Eurostampa.
Read the full article at Castle & Key Completes First Phase of $2M Solar Project
