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.
Orlando, FL, - ESA, a leading provider of clean energy solutions headquartered in Central Florida, announced today that the growing firm is focusing on building a top Orlando workplace by doubling down on a people-forward culture. Amid uncertain economic times, and mass layoffs, ESA is committed to adding new jobs, and advancing an innovative and inclusive workplace for employees. In the last six months ESA has unveiled several new internal benefits and initiatives to support its growing team and foster a culture of excellence and innovation, including the hiring of a new People Operations Manager.
Listed as a Fast 50 company by Orlando Business Journal for the past three years, ESA has seen a 35% growth in revenue, with this year expected to nearly double 2022 revenue volume. This growth comes because of the passing of the Federal Inflation Reduction ACT (IRA) which provided new tax incentives and opportunities for clean energy technology. These new tax incentives and programs have skyrocketed demand for ESA’s projects, serving large corporate enterprises, investors, and utilities across the United States. With a 40% increase in new employee hires in the past year, ESA expects to grow to over 100 employees by the end of 2023.
As part of its expansion plans, ESA has recently begun to double its current office square footage, which will accommodate its current staff and allow for future growth. The new office features state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative workspaces, and wellness amenities to create a people centered environment.
In addition, ESA has partnered with the University of Central Florida (UCF) to continue to foster a successful internship program that provides students with hands-on learning opportunities and mentorship from ESA's experts. The program aims to attract and develop the next generation of engineers and project developers who share ESA's vision of delivering high-quality clean energy solutions to its clients.
As part of its commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment, ESA has also launched several new initiatives to enhance its employee benefits and community involvement. These include:
ESA has also hired a new People Operations Manager, Falen Bell. Falen brings over 7 years of experience in human resources and organizational development to the ESA team. She will be responsible for overseeing the company's talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, and diversity and inclusion efforts.
"We are thrilled to announce these initiatives that reflect our commitment to our people and our community," said Morgan Brawner, VP of ESA. "Falen is a great addition to our leadership team and we are excited to have her onboard. She shares our vision of building a better workplace for our employees and a better future for our planet. We believe that investing in our people, our culture, and our partnership is the best way to achieve our strategic goals and deliver exceptional value to our clients and partners.”
"I am so excited to join this team at ESA and the culture that has been built. I’m so excited to continue to find ways to grow and improve as the company adds more and more new talented people to the roster," said Falen Bell, People Operations Manager of ESA. "We want our employees to feel valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference. We also want to give back to the communities we serve and protect the environment we depend on. These initiatives are just some of the ways we are doing that.”
South Hill, VA - ESA’s Marrow Street Solar Farm Community Grant Program has awarded funding to five community-based organizations who are making positive impacts locally in community revitalization, environmental sustainability, education support or healthy living.
The organizations awarded were South Hill Lions Club, South Hill Revitalization Committee, South Hill Breadbox, Rotary Club of South Hill, and Imagination Library of Mecklenburg County.
“Working with local organizations and helping them achieve more is what our company stands for. Such amazing organizations that are dedicated to improving South Hill every day have our gratitude and partnership,” said Justin Vandenbroeck, Executive Vice President at ESA. “Their work motivates us, and we are eager to provide economic relief for low-to-moderate income community members who face high electricity costs.”
"The Lions Club will be able to provide more glasses, possibly provide at least one more $500 scholarship to graduating seniors this year,” said Lisa Clary, Membership Chair/Public Image Chair of South Hill Lions Club. “We also help our local Fire and Rescue Departments with a financial donation as well as well as other organizations on the state or district level such as Lions of Virginia Foundation, Leader Dogs and more,”
"It will provide an opportunity to assist with community clean-ups, beautification of the Town of South Hill and to make it more inviting to tours, residents and to those that call South Hill home,” said Melissa Morris, VP of South Hill Revitalization Committee.
"We are so grateful to have this Grant money to be able to provide fresh fruits and vegetables and other necessities for the clients we serve monthly. This will be such a big help in providing for the needs of our community,” said Amber Thomas, President of South Hill Breadbox.
"This will allow us to support our scholarship fundraiser program as we raise money to offer scholarships," said Lisa Clary, President Elect 2023-2024 for Rotary Club of South Hill.
"The grant from Marrow Street Solar Farm Community Grant allows the Imagination Library of Mecklenburg County to provide books, mailed to children aged 0-5 each month at no cost to the family,” said Leslie Williford, Director of Imagination Library of Eastern Mecklenburg County. “Our partnerships with civic groups, churches, and businesses enable the Imagination Library to work with the four elementary schools to improve literacy and learning among young children of our County.”
ESA is in the process of developing a 2 MW AC community solar farm on approximately 9 acres of land in South Hill for low-to-moderate income residents who are currently Dominion Energy customers. They will be able to “subscribe” to the Marrow Street Solar Farm as part of the Virginia Shared Solar Program and save money on their electric bill. The project is expected to come online in late 2024.
ESA has successfully developed six small community solar projects in southern Virginia.
CLEARWATER, Fla. – Dimmitt Chevrolet is proud to unveil its new rooftop solar array, installed in partnership with ESA. The solar panels will provide clean energy to power the dealership's operations and reduce its carbon footprint.
The 729.96 kW solar array, consisting of over 2,000 panels, is expected to generate over one gigawatt-hour of electricity per year. As one of the largest solar installations for an auto dealership to date, the annual energy produced is the equivalent of over 750 homes and will offset about 156 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.1 Dimmitt Chevrolet is expected be powered 100% by solar energy, and by tapping into expanded federal tax incentives, will return all capital invested through energy savings in just under five years.
"This is a major step towards our goal of becoming a more sustainable and environmentally friendly business,” said Lawrence Dimmitt III, the owner of Dimmitt Chevrolet. “As we continue to add more EV options for customers, our electricity use will continue go up. It just makes sense to invest in clean energy. We are excited to partner with ESA to bring solar to our dealership.”
Auto dealers have a substantial opportunity to attract consumers as the demand for electric vehicles increases. EV sales increased 45% from 2020 to 2021, and hybrid sales nearly doubled. By 2025, it is estimated that EVs may account for 19% of all new U.S. car sales, and by 2035, as much as 68% of all new vehicles being sold in the United States.2
As the adoption of EVs increases, innovative auto dealers are looking to solar energy to offset the costs of electric vehicles on their dealership. ESA works with dealers across United States to develop tailored solar programs for auto dealerships that will maximize available tax credits and incentives, while generating an immediate return on capital. Dealers that operate in multiple states can evaluate their portfolio and quickly determine the locations with the highest return on investment by leveraging ESA’s auto dealer program.
"We are thrilled to work with Dimmitt Chevrolet on this flagship project," said Morgan Brawner, EVP of ESA. "The Dimmitt enterprise is an example of an entrepreneurial leader in the franchised auto dealership space that saw the opportunity to put capital to work, and hedge against increasing electric rates while reducing tax liability. Leveraging solar to offset 100% of annual energy needs will prove to be a competitive advantage as EV market share grows over the coming years.
Dimmitt Chevrolet invites the community to visit the dealership and learn more about its commitment to sustainability. The dealership now has over 20 electric vehicle charging stations, and with its 100th year in business approaching in 2024, is now solidified as a leading auto business prepared for the future.
For more information about Dimmitt Chevrolet, please visit https://www.dimmittchevrolet.com/.
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Cape Canaveral, FL - The City of Cape Canaveral Community Center has recently opened its all-new building, complete with a state-of-the-art rooftop solar array provided by ESA. The 72-panel, 48 kW array is the City’s first rooftop solar initiative, and will provide clean energy to the Community Center, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and operating costs.
The new building, which has been in development for over five years, is the result of a partnership between the City of Cape Canaveral Community Center and ESA, who saw an opportunity to not only provide much-needed community resources, but also to promote the use of clean energy and sustainability. This system will help the City meet its decarbonization goals and power all its buildings and facilities with locally generated, clean energy by 2035 per the City’s 2021 Resiliency Action Plan.
"We are thrilled to unveil this new, state-of-the-art community center with our City’s first rooftop solar array," said Zachary Eichholz, City of Cape Canaveral Deputy Community and Economic Development Director and Sustainability Manager. "This project has been a true collaboration between our community and ESA, and we couldn't be more proud of the result. We hope that this center will be a beacon for both sustainability and resilience, as well as a gathering place for our community for years to come."
The 24,000 sq. ft. Community Center features a wide range of amenities, including a full size indoor basketball court, group fitness classroom, traverse wall, weight room, indoor walking track and a multipurpose meeting/banquet room. It will also offer a variety of programs and services for all ages, including sports, arts and crafts, and educational workshops.
Soon, ESA and the City will unveil a second new building with rooftop solar. For more information, please visit the Cape Canaveral Community Center website.
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