Castle & Key Distillery has completed Phase 1 of a major solar energy project, advancing its sustainability goals with the help of a $2 million investment supported by the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant.
“This is the largest solar project at a distillery in Woodford County,” said Engineering Manager Charles Crume. The distillery’s Versailles warehouse is now host to 754 solar panels across 20,950 sqft, generating 400 kilowatts (kW) of alternating current (AC).
Phase 2, set to begin in spring 2025, will further expand solar energy production capacity. Upon completion the full solar farm will generate 960 kW AC — enough to cover most of the distilleries energy needs while selling excess energy back to Kentucky Utilities. The excess electricity alone is estimated to power up to 350 homes with solar energy.
Castle & Key co-Founder Will Arvin emphasized the distillery’s long-term commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, lowering energy costs + emphasis on 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.”
