Renewable Energy Investment

We are nearing the completion of a three-year-long effort to transition our studios entirely to renewable energy. Guided by an SEAI-funded energy audit and partial grant support, we installed solar panels and heat pumps to replace our old oil-burning systems. Now, both our studio and accommodation building run on electricity from a grid largely powered by renewable sources. This achievement marks a meaningful step towards operating our studios in a more responsible and sustainable manner.

Our 39 solar panels will supply more than enough energy for all our needs during summer, when we run Art on the Farm, our four-week studio program. Additionally, this installation is actually large enough to significantly contribute to our needs in the spring, when we offer our residencies, as well as in the autumn, when we run our gap year program, FieldWorks. This project required considerable time, hard physical labor, and patient dedication, but it reflects our strong commitment to reducing the studios’ carbon footprint. It’s a significant milestone, but just one of many steps we plan to take to make a more positive impact on our environment.

Our new system includes a 17.355 kWp solar array, a 16 kWh battery system and inverter by Sigenergy, and two Dalkin heat pumps, one for the studio and the other for the barn. Thanks to Pinergy for the solar installation and RTS Heating and Cooling Services for the heat pumps. Southeast Energy Agency was instrumental in processing the community grant application and in ensuring compliance. This effort is the largest capital investment we’ve made since renovating the studios in 2006 and 2007. It fulfills a long-held ambition that once seemed out of reach and stands as a testament to how far renewable technologies have come. We’re proud that this milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to a more sustainable future for Cow House Studios.