There may be no ceiling to the potential electricity savings that solar energy offers, but Barron Heating & Air Conditioning found their roof to be a good place to start.
Late last summer, Barron Heating installed the largest commercial solar electric system in Whatcom County at its Ferndale headquarters. The solar array consists of 375 panels on the roof of its Fabrication and Warehouse building. The panels are tied to seven inverters, creating a 123.75 kW system.
“This solar project, in conjunction with an LED lighting overhaul of our facilities, takes Barron Heating’s Ferndale campus to net positive electrical generation,” owner John Barron said. “We now generate more electricity annually than we use in our two Ferndale buildings.”
Barron added that by saving $13,000 annually in electricity costs, the project will pay for itself in less than four years.
“This shows that environmental stewardship and smart business go hand in hand,” Barron said. “We encourage other businesses to look into the opportunities that solar energy provides.”
Barron Heating has become one of Northwest Washington’s largest and most respected providers of home comfort products and services with locations in Ferndale, Burlington and Marysville. The Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce named the company its Green Business of the Year in 2013. Approximately 115 employees serve customers in five counties: Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish.
Barron Heating offers a wide range of heating and air conditioning products and services, including ductless heat pump and in-floor radiant systems. It also features a large selection of gas, wood and pellet stoves and fireplaces.