A View from Gaiam’s Rooftop
by Everett | January 29th, 2009 | Comments (1)
topic: Gaiam Happenings, Green Tech | tags: co, colorado, gaiam, louisville, Real-Goods, solar electric, solar panels
Tucked between the Colorado foothills and a watering stop for migrating Canadian geese are the Gaiam corporate offices in Louisville, CO. We have a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains from all west-facing windows, but it’s the view from our rooftop that takes my breath away.
Seen here with the snow-capped mountains in the background are our 462 Sharp 216-watt PV modules, which provide 100kW of solar power to the new offices of Gaiam, Real Goods, and Natural Habitat Adventure Travel.
Along with the solar panels come 12 SMA 7,000-watt inverters and a state-of-the-art energy management center. This system provides a significant portion of the building’s electricity, and over the next 30 years it will create clean energy equal to 8,600 barrels of oil saved, 7,528,800 car miles not driven, 31,800 lbs. of acid rain emissions reduction, 3,011 tons of greenhouse gas reduction or 14,417 mature trees planted.
Other ways in which Gaiam’s new offices walk-the-walk include the use of low-VOC paints throughout the office, green carpeting and carpet glue, renewable, strand-woven bamboo flooring and cabinetry, and an organic, zero-waste cafe with fresh, organic food.
Gaiam / Real Goods Solar Electric System Details
- 100kW Grid-Tied Solar Electric System
- 462 216-watt Sharp PV modules
- SunLink racking system
- 12 SMA 7,000-watt inverters
- Completion Date: June 2008
- Installed by Real Goods Solar
[...] a few of our Gaiam team members and get a peek at, you guessed it, our yoga studio — plus our our solar power system, Gaiam Cafe, Gaiam Garden, filming studio, customer service center, mock retail store and more. Put [...]