Renewable Energy For A Cleaner Planet … We use Biodiesel (a renewable fuel derived from natural vegetable oil) in our tractors and cars. Our new solar energy installation supplies 25% of our energy needs (with more solar panels to come!). Renewable energy sources reduce carbon dioxide emissions and relieve pressure on declining world stocks of petroleum.
Solar electric power is created using photovoltaic cells and panels. Many of us use electricity generated in this way every day, without even thinking about it, since many small calculators and wrist watches are run on photovoltaic cells. Photovoltaic material converts sunlight directly into electricity. When sunlight strikes the material, electrons are dislodged, creating an electrical current which can be captured and harnessed. The photovoltaic materials can be several individual solar cells or a single thin layer, which make up a larger solar panel.
www.solarelectricpower.org
Biodiesel is a clean burning fuel produced from domestic, renewable resources. Biodiesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel, and can be used in a diesel engine (vineyard equipment, trucks and automobiles) with little or no modification. Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. It is biodegradable and non-toxic.
www.biodiesel.org
Energy audit partner Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) helped us monitor energy usage, and recommended ways and means to enhance our energy efficiency.
www.pge.com/environment
locally owned and operated • grapes from family farms • protecting the environment • solar power • earth-friendly packaging • carbon neutrality