Don Mealey Auto Group has announced the opening of its new Sport Subaru dealership in Orlando, featuring a 395-kW 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.
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. “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.
News item from ESA
This is great. If they took it a step further and built a solar carport, then they could cover nearly 100% of their electrical costs while protecting their inventory from inclement weather. It would also be nice to keep their cars cooler while customers sit inside to check them out.