Maui Brewing company made headlines recently for their $9M solar project. In addition to sun-powering their own entities, the company has also financed other solar projects on Maui to take advantage of additional tax credits, according to Pacific Business News.
Here is a summary of some of Maui Brewing Company’s sustainability initiatives.
- The recently added 85,000 square foot Kihei facility has 1.2MW array of photo voltaic (PV) panels covering 100% of the roof, awning and carports. Solar PV along with Tesla battery storage provides 80% of power needs.
- Biodiesel generators provide makeup and backup power as needed vs. grid power
- Solar Thermal systems reduce Propane gas consumption by approximately 50% for water heating needs
- Producing ~86% of CO2 on-site; recovered 35,000 lbs of CO2 from being vented into the atmosphere as of June 2018.
- Combined sustainability efforts will reduce CO2 emissions by more than 2,000,000 pounds per year
Why can’t all developing businesses be this eco-friendly?
For Maui Brewing company, it started with a deep concern for the environment one of its cornerstone goals. The company was one of the first craft brewers to package in recyclable aluminum cans and use eco-friendly packaging materials. Spent grain is given to local farmers for feed and compost. Now the largest authentic Hawaiian craft brewery, Maui Brewing Company keeps sustainability and use of renewable energy sources at the forefront, which may be why the company is recognized worldwide for quality and innovation.
Maui Brewing Company was established in 2005 and currently employs over 500 people. Locations include the Brewery and Restaurant at 605 Lipoa Parkway, Kihei, Hawaii, Lahaina Restaurant at 4405 Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, Waikiki Restaurant at 2300 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, and the Kailua Restaurant at 573 Kailua Road, Suite 105, Kailua.
Transportation can be a significant part of any product’s carbon footprint. By purchasing products made or grown in Hawaii, consumer’s can reduce CO2 emissions. Does that mean you should drink more Maui Brewing Company beer? Yes, and other products made close to home.
