AdventHealth is taking another step toward reducing its carbon emissions and achieving its environmental sustainability goals with an on-site solar energy installation at its corporate headquarters in Altamonte Springs, Florida.
The faith-based health system’s corporate headquarters employs nearly 5,000 team members who work to support the system’s operations and care delivery across the country.
Starting this week, the Maitland-based national solar developer ESA will begin the work to install more than 7,500 solar panels on top of four buildings and two garages that comprise the corporate campus. Additionally, solar canopies will be constructed throughout the parking lot surface and additional electric vehicle charging stations will be mounted that can support 62 electric vehicles.
“AdventHealth is pursuing sustainability initiatives that help ensure the long-term well-being of our team members, patients, communities, business and environment. This solar installation will help reduce our impact on the environment while demonstrating our commitment in a significant and tangible way,” said Christine Stewart, vice president of organizational integration and campus administration for AdventHealth.
The solar system will be approximately 3 megawatts in size and provide 4,200 megawatt hours of electricity annually, decreasing the reliance on utility-provided electricity on the campus by about a third and saving an estimated $20 million over 20 years. A system this size generates enough electricity to power over 550 homes for one year1. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, the solar installation will be one of the largest privately owned corporate solar projects in Florida.
"This collaboration represents the first step in a larger strategy to help AdventHealth meet their environmental goals with on-site clean energy," said Morgan Brawner, chief revenue officer at ESA. “By developing a comprehensive clean energy roadmap, ESA is supporting the health care sector as it aims to reach the ambitious goals outlined in the Health Sector Climate Pledge.”
As a signatory of the U.S. Health and Human Services Health Sector Climate Pledge, AdventHealth has pledged a 50% reduction by 2030 in its greenhouse gas emissions from electricity. In addition to on-site solar installations, the health system is also establishing long-term virtual power purchase agreements to fund the development and operation of large-scale renewable energy projects – such as wind and solar – in exchange for Renewable Energy Certificates and participating in community energy projects with local utility providers in some of the communities it serves.
About AdventHealth
With a sacred mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ, AdventHealth is a connected system of care for every stage of life and health. More than 90,000 team members across hundreds of care sites including physician practices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health agencies and hospice centers provide individualized, wholistic care. A shared vision, common values, focus on whole-person health and commitment to making communities healthier unify the system's more than 50 hospital campuses in diverse markets throughout nine states. For more information about AdventHealth, visit AdventHealth.com/news, and to learn more about how AdventHealth is working to make its communities healthier places to live, visit AdventHealth.com/sustainability.
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 5, 2024) – Installing air conditioning to a spacious automobile service center is an expensive investment for any dealership. But according to Orlando’s Classic Mazda General Manager Chad Rogers, it’s part of an investment that has paid off in surprisingly high dividends: more than a forty percent decrease in energy costs and an increase in morale. “By installing rooftop solar panels along with an air conditioning system, we not only reduced our carbon footprint and energy costs, we also experienced a rise in technician efficiency, morale and retention. We’ve always known our mechanics were cool,” he smiled. “Providing them with a climate-controlled workspace is part of our ongoing commitment to reward and retain this region’s best and brightest auto technicians.”
Mazda has long been a leader protecting the environment. “In addition to our large inventory of cars with impressive miles per gallon, our new line of E-vehicles is meeting the growing consumer demand.” Rogers particularly noted the unique capabilities of the new Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) which exemplifies Mazda’s detail-obsessed philosophy.
A total of 630 solar panels of 480 watts each were installed on the facility’s roof. “Our solar rooftop now has the capacity to generate more than 440,000 kilowatt hours annually,” he said.
The dealership partnered with ESA Solar, a Maitland, Florida-based national clean energy development corporation with a diverse portfolio of industrial and community projects now in 22 states. According to ESA Account Executive Anne Shirley Lewis, “Together we’re reducing costs and driving sustainability in a tangible way that resonates with modern consumers.”
For more information about Classic Mazda go to www.ClassicMazda.com
Classic Mazda Contact: Lori C. Booker, APR LCBooker@CBRpr.com
“We’re shouting it from our energized rooftop.”
LAKELAND, Fla. (March 5, 2024) – When Mazda Lakeland celebrated the grand opening of its environmentally- friendly dealership last year, its most impressive commitment to the environment was still in the works: the installation of 412 solar panels to further reduce the dealership’s carbon footprint. The installation is now complete and the results are in: a whopping 46.5 % decrease in energy costs. The rooftop solar energy system has the capacity to generate more than 311,736 kilowatt hours annually.
According to Mazda Lakeland General Manager Sophia Justiz, “We anticipated a cost reduction, but not in the neighborhood of fifty percent. It definitely exceeded our expectations.”
Pointing to the available vehicles on its campus Justiz added, “Mazda has long been a leader in protecting the environment. Our cars boast impressive miles per gallon. We’re especially proud of the capabilities of the new Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). It’s a phenomenally popular vehicle that reflects Mazda’s detail-obsessed philosophy.”
Mazda Lakeland’s rooftop solar project was installed by ESA, a national clean energy development corporation with a diverse portfolio that includes industrial and community projects in 22 states. According to ESA Account Executive Anne Shirley Lewis, “Together we’re reducing costs and driving sustainability in a tangible way that resonates with modern consumers.”
Added Justiz: “In recent years we Floridians have experienced incredibly hot – let’s say bright – summers,” she noted. “Being able to capture that solar energy and then pass those savings on to our customers? Well, that’s something we want to shout from our energized rooftop,” she grinned.
For more information about Mazda Lakeland go to www.MazdaLakeland.com.
Lakeland Mazda Contact: Lori C. Booker, APR LCBooker@CBRpr.com
The Initiative Aims to Help Healthcare Achieve 2025 and 2030 Decarbonization Goals with Expert Consulting
Orlando, FL, Oct. 17th, 2023 – ESA, a leader in clean energy development across commercial, utility scale, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and community solar sectors, is announcing a new initiative tailored to assist healthcare institutions in achieving their decarbonization commitments.
Climate change presents considerable health challenges globally, and the healthcare sector faces unique hurdles in reducing its carbon footprint, especially given its intense energy needs and regulatory requirements. ESA's new initiative offers strategic insights and technological solutions to these challenges.
The healthcare sector is responsible for around 4.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions and a substantial 8% of the total energy consumption in the United States. This is due to a number of factors, including the high energy consumption of hospitals and other healthcare facilities, the use of energy-intensive medical equipment, and the transportation of patients and staff.
The sector faces unique challenges in reducing its carbon footprint. Hospitals must operate 24/7, even during power outages, and due to the healthcare sector is heavily regulated, it can be difficult to adopt new technologies and practices.
Healthcare systems are facing increasing pressure from patients, employees, investors, and governments to meet decarbonization goals by reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
"We recognize the healthcare industry's urgency to meet impending 2025 and 2030 climate goals. After working with several organizations, we found a gap in building actual roadmaps to decarbonization. ESA is now moving to develop paths to on-site and off-site energy generation for healthcare institutions. With our extensive experience in solar development, ESA is poised to guide these organizations through the complexity of transitioning to renewable energy," states Morgan Brawner, Chief Revenue Officer at ESA.
ESA's new initiative is aligned with the Biden administration's Health Sector Climate Pledge, a voluntary commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Over 100 healthcare organizations have already signed the pledge, including hospitals, health centers, suppliers, insurance companies, and pharmaceutical companies.
ESA's initiative will help healthcare organizations to meet their commitments by providing them with the tools and resources they need to decarbonize, including assessing their energy consumption, identifying opportunities for efficiency gains, and adopting renewable energy sources and energy-saving technologies.
ESA's solar solutions can help healthcare organizations stabilize operating expenses by providing a predictable and affordable source of energy. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are a popular option for healthcare organizations because they allow them to lock in a fixed price for electricity for a period of 15-20 years. This can help to offset rising utility costs and protect healthcare organizations from volatile energy markets.
ESA can help healthcare organizations analyze their facilities and identify the ones with the highest energy expenditure. This can be done by using a variety of tools and techniques, such as energy audits and data analytics. Once ESA has identified the facilities with the highest energy expenditure, it can develop a plan to reduce energy consumption and costs. This plan may include measures such as:
ESA aids healthcare institutions in reducing their Scope 2 emissions, enhancing their ESG performance, and meeting their Climate Pledge commitments for 2050. Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source that can help healthcare organizations to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their ESG performance.
Healthcare systems can reduce their Scope 1 and 2 emissions by adopting renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and electrifying their vehicle fleets. They can reduce their Scope 3 emissions by working with their suppliers - such as cold storage and logistics - to reduce emissions and by developing sustainable procurement practices.
For healthcare organizations, reliable power is essential. ESA ensures there are no service interruptions, especially vital for areas like cold storage pharmaceuticals. The healthcare sector's growth is accompanied by challenges such as managing operating costs and meeting ESG targets, exacerbated by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Energy storage and backup power can play a vital role in enhancing the resilience of healthcare organizations. Even a brief power outage can have serious consequences for patient safety. By storing excess energy generated from solar panels or other renewable energy sources, healthcare organizations can ensure that they have access to power even during grid outages. Energy storage can also help healthcare organizations to reduce their reliance on fossil fuel-powered generators.
"Our tailored consulting addresses these challenges, making healthcare facilities more sustainable and attractive for potential M&A activities," Morgan Brawner notes. "ESA is here to be your trusted partner in this essential transition. We offer financial benefits and tangible opportunities to reduce your carbon footprint significantly. The deadlines are nearing, and we urge healthcare leaders to collaborate with us, ensuring a sustainable future for the industry."
Winter Haven, FL – The Low Payment Kings powered by Mahalak Auto Group has announced a major commitment to sustainability by going solar at their Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Winter Haven, Posner Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT, and Lake Wales Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM dealerships. The company has partnered with ESA to invest in new rooftop and ground mount solar panel arrays that will be installed at these three dealerships.
In addition to reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment, Mahalak Auto Group decided to go solar to save money on its climbing electric bills. As the new solar panels generate clean energy to power up the dealerships, the amount needed to be drawn from the grid is drastically reduced.
Mahalak Auto Group will also be installing more EV chargers at each dealership, in addition to the solar arrays. This move is aimed at supporting the growing number of electric vehicles on the road and providing a convenient charging option for their customers.
"We are thrilled to partner with ESA to take this major step towards sustainability," said J.P. Mahalak, CEO of Mahalak Auto Group. "We believe that investing in renewable energy is not only good for the environment, but it also makes good business sense. This investment opens up possibilities for our business, like ensuring our infrastructure can withstand the additional electric vehicle inventory and the accompanying charging stations on our lots. We are excited to see the positive impact that our new solar panels and EV chargers will have on our dealerships, our customers, and the community as a whole."
The Low Payment Kings at Lake Wales Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram location will be a 158 kW DC system comprised of 330 panels expected to generate 255 MWh of electricity per year.
The Low Payment Kings at Posner Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Fiat will be a 318 kW DC system comprised of 664 panels expected to generate 504 MWh of electricity per year.
The Low Payment Kings at Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Winter Haven location will have two arrays. The rooftop array will be a 119 kWdc system comprised of 248 panels and expected to generate 183 MWh of electricity per year. The ground mount array will be a 204 kWdc system comprised of 426 panels expected to generate 282 MWh of electricity per year.
The installation of the new solar panels and EV chargers is expected to be completed in the coming months. Mahalak Auto Group hopes that this move will inspire other businesses to take similar steps towards sustainability and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.
About the Mahalak Auto Group (MAG): Ralph Mahalak Sr. opened his auto dealership in Monroe, Michigan in 1966. He was dedicated to providing reliable products and services to his community. In 1991, he handed over his business skills and motivation to his four sons, Ralph Jr, Mike, JP, and Alex. Now, the four brothers run seven different family owned and operated dealerships committed to their communities. Four of which are in Florida - Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram of Winter Haven, Alfa Romeo Fiat of Winter Haven, Posner Park Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat in Davenport. In 2013, MAG purchased the Sorenson Schade Chrysler dealership in Lake Wales and re-named it Lake Wales Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM. In Monroe MI, the Monroe Superstore sells Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and RAM. The Buckeye Superstore in Shelby OH sells Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, RAM, and Fiat. LPK Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Defiance OH is the newest dealership acquisition. All the dealerships are branded as the Low Payment Kings powered by the Mahalak Auto Group.
Orlando, FL – ESA, a leading solar development company, has been recognized by Solar Power World in its annual Top Solar Contractors List. Ranked as the #1 solar developer in Florida and #122 overall, up from last year's ranking of #249, the company continues to make significant strides in expanding the U.S. solar market. With over of 15 MW of commercial solar power installed in 2022, we also ranked #21 in development and #46 in commercial.
The 2023 Top Solar Contractors List, released today by Solar Power World, is the most recognized annual listing of U.S. solar contractors working across utility, commercial, residential, and community solar markets. The list's unveiling comes amidst growing excitement for solar and storage technologies, supported by significant federal backing in the Inflation Reduction Act.
“We're incredibly proud of our team's hard work and dedication to advancing clean energy solutions for businesses and communities nationwide," said Morgan Brawner, Chief Revenue Officer at ESA, "It's an honor to be recognized by Solar Power World, and we are particularly proud to be the top solar developer headquartered in Florida. This recognition fuels our commitment to continue driving solar innovation and make a positive impact on our communities."
ESA's recognition is a testament to the firm’s continued focus on developing and implementing comprehensive, decarbonization solutions. The company’s ranking also reinforces its strong commitment to its mission of simplifying the process of decarbonizing real estate and making solar energy more accessible to businesses nationwide.
In addition to developing innovative solar solutions, ESA remains committed to addressing key industry challenges, including the struggle to find qualified job candidates – an issue cited by nearly 75% of those surveyed.
The U.S. has reported its strongest first-quarter ever in Q1 2023 for solar panels installed, and industry analysts expect the market to triple in size over the next five years. As the industry continues to expand, ESA looks forward to playing an integral role in this growth, driving value for its clients, and making a lasting impact on the renewable energy landscape.
Augusta County, VA – ESA’s Fishersville Road Solar Farm Community Grant Program has awarded funding to three community-based organizations who are making positive impacts locally in community revitalization, environmental sustainability, education support or healthy living.
The organizations awarded were Blue Ridge CASA for Children, Magnolia Rose, and Arc of Augusta.
“Cultivating relationships with local organizations and amplifying their impact is core to our ethos as a company. We are humbled to support such phenomenal organizations who work tirelessly every day to make Augusta County an even better place,” said Justin Vandenbroeck, Chief Operating Officer at ESA. “We are inspired by their work and look forward to doing our part to ensure that low-to-moderate income community members have pathways to economic relief from rising electricity costs.”
The first recipient of the Fishersville Road Solar Farm Community Grant is Blue Ridge CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), a non-profit organization that recruits, trains, and empowers volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children who cannot safely remain in their homes. CASA Advocates build relationships, review records, and provide detailed court reports based on the child's best interests. Supported by knowledgeable Advocate Managers, these volunteers improve the children's physical and mental health, address trauma, and increase their chances of a healthy life.
CEO of the Blue Ridge CASA for Children said “ESA's $2,500 grant enables Blue Ridge CASA for Children to expand its services and support additional children in the foster care system, providing them with crucial advocacy and resources to ensure their safety and well-being during challenging times. With this funding, the organization can recruit and train more volunteer advocates, conduct outreach efforts, and offer essential services to a greater number of vulnerable children in need.”
Magnolia Rose, another grant recipient, is a non-profit organization in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia dedicated to providing hope and healing to victims of human trafficking. They offer an emergency shelter with fully furnished apartments, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for survivors to begin their transformative journey. Through a partnership with Augusta Health's medical mobile unit, they provide on-site detox recovery and comprehensive healthcare services. With a storefront in downtown Waynesboro, they generate funds to sustain their impactful programs. Their commitment extends to street outreach and the future establishment of a Healing Center for at-risk teen girls, offering counseling, tutoring, and mentorship. Magnolia Rose is deeply committed to empowering survivors and making a lasting impact on their lives.
Jessica Garcia, secretary of Magnolia Rose, said “This grant will have a great impact on our local community by ensuring Magnolia Rose can continue our mission of bringing hope and healing to women and girls that have survived human trafficking in the Shenandoah Valley. Thanks to ESA and their generous grant, we are able to provide safe housing, detox and recovery services, advocacy, and a neighborly support system for vulnerable women and their families.”
The final recipient of the Fishersville Road Solar Farm Community Grant Program is Arc of Augusta, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving individuals with developmental disabilities in the Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County areas. Established in 1960 by a group of parents who wanted their children to have access to education, the organization has since provided a range of services including summer camps, holiday parties, day programs, and legal advocacy. Currently, the focus is on promoting socialization and providing education on healthy living for individuals with developmental disabilities.
“With the grant, we can plan fun community events and workshops that bring everyone together, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. It'll open up opportunities for people of all abilities to make meaningful friendships and community connections,” said Tosha Berry, Executive Director for the Arc of Augusta.
ESA is in the process of developing a small community solar farm on approximately 8 acres of land in Augusta for low-to-moderate income residents who are currently Dominion Energy customers. They will be able to “subscribe” to the Fishersville Road Solar Farm as part of the Virginia Shared Solar Program and save money on their electric bill.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Don Mealey Auto Group is pleased to announce the opening of its new Sport Subaru dealership in Orlando, featuring a rooftop solar project by ESA. This solar array will serve as a pilot project for future electrification of other Don Mealey Group Auto Dealerships as part of a multi-dealership strategy centered on clean energy technology. Consisting of nearly 1200 panels, the 395 kW array is expected to generate over 600,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.
Since 1974, Don Mealey auto group has been a leader in the Central Florida area, serving drivers with their vehicle sales and service needs by delivering an exceptional customer experience that makes memories for life. The solar panels, installed by ESA, will provide clean, renewable energy to power the dealership's operations. This location will see an average of 60% reduction in their annual electricity costs and is projected to have a return on its investment in about 6 years.
"I'm incredibly proud of the journey we've taken to bring Sport Subaru to its new home, said Robert Mealey, owner of Sport Subaru. “It wasn't easy, but we knew that relocating to a modern facility was essential to living up to the Subaru Love Promise and providing our customers with the best possible experience. Our commitment to community and environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything we do, which is why we took on the challenge of remediating the land and restoring the wetlands. And, we're thrilled to be generating our own solar power, which not only makes good business sense, but aligns with our values of sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. We're excited to be a part of the Orlando community and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional service and support for our customers.”
As more people switch to electric vehicles, there is a growing need for EV charging stations. Auto dealers can use solar energy to power these charging stations, making them more cost-effective and reducing their reliance on the grid. By installing solar panels and EV charging stations, auto dealers can create a more sustainable and convenient experience for their customers.
In recent years, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has been actively engaged in discussions about the increasing importance of EVs and has been advocating for policies that support the growth and adoption of EVs, while also addressing the challenges and concerns of dealerships related to servicing and selling these vehicles. NADA has also been working with automakers and policymakers to promote consumer education about EVs and the benefits of transitioning to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system.
Sport Subaru is open for business at 1800 N John Young Pkwy Orlando, FL 32804. For more information about Sport Subaru and its green initiatives, please visit www.sportsubaru.com.
Orlando, FL (June 26, 2023) - ESA is thrilled to announce a strategic co-development partnership with Nautilus Solar, who will acquire a portfolio of up to 270 MW DC community solar projects in the Midwest from ESA, a pivotal move towards encouraging early-stage community solar initiatives in the Great Lakes region.
This mutually beneficial relationship lays a strong foundation for ESA's sustainable growth trajectory, ensuring continued profitability while championing the core values of environmental stewardship and renewable energy advancement. Importantly, ESA will remain 100% owned by its original founding partners, reinforcing its commitment to its founding principles.
"We are proud to establish this co-development partnership with Nautilus," said Lindsay Latre, CEO of ESA. "This collaboration harnesses ESA's expertise in renewable energy and Nautilus' financial might and nimble transactional abilities. Together, we aim to create a lasting impact on the communities we serve, turning widespread renewable energy adoption into reality."
"By combining our resources, expertise, and capital," added Justin Vandenbroeck, COO at ESA, "We’re setting the stage for an equitable, sustainable future, further enhancing the economic opportunities the clean energy economy provides to rural communities across the United States.”
Commenting on the partnership, Laura York, Vice President of Structuring at Nautilus, said, "We are thrilled to unite ESA's market savvy and development expertise with Nautilus's financial might and nimble transactional abilities. This partnership combines our complementary strengths, equipping us to navigate hurdles and risks together while driving transformative outcomes for early-stage development projects."
Piper Sandler Companies, a reputable advisor in the sector, played a key role in facilitating this strategic co-development partnership. Their expertise and guidance were instrumental in ensuring a transparent, mutually beneficial, and robust agreement that aligns with both ESA's and Nautilus's strategic objectives.
ESA and Nautilus are united in their dedication to pushing the clean energy transition forward. By harnessing their combined strengths, these two organizations are poised to make a significant impact on the Great Lakes region, paving the way for a future powered by clean, reliable, and accessible solar energy.
Orlando, FL - ESA is announcing the completion of the first phase of a new 3.6 MW solar project in Central Florida, continuing its expansion as a leading provider of clean energy solutions for businesses. This three-phase solar farm project is part of ESA's ongoing efforts to provide pathways to decarbonization for companies and communities nationwide.
The project will consist of three (3) 1.2 MW DC systems that will be built in phases. These systems will be used to support all the electricity needs on-site for a local agricultural leader. The solar farm project will help cut electricity costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create a more reliable source of electricity, and promote clean energy in the region.
The array utilizes a ground-mounted system equipped with Terrasmart Glide racking, a state-of-the-art design built to provide maximum efficiency and stability, making it the perfect choice for this type of installation.
"We are happy to already be wrapping up phase one of this new solar farm project near our home base of Central Florida," said Justin Vandenbroeck, Executive VP of ESA. "Working alongside local agricultural leaders to promote sustainable energy practices is how we help them meet their growing energy needs. This project will power a cannabis facility, one of the fastest growing sources of new electricity consumption, rivaling data centers and EVs."
The second phase of this solar farm project is expected to be completed by the end of this year, opening a path for more on-site solar for cannabis facilities. Solar can eliminate costs for growing operations, as electricity can be 30%-50% of the wholesale cost of cannabis production. ESA looks forward to continuing to work with businesses and organizations across the country to promote sustainable energy practices and build a better future for us all.
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