Infrastructure for a solar array on the barn roof has been in place for a decade. But there were some nice trees causing too much shade. We decided now is the time to take those trees down. We (or rather JC) are removing a maple in the paddock, and a stand of three smallish trees behind the apothecary shed (namesake alert). We’re also having any overhanging black walnut limbs removed to control the risk of walnut bombs.
It was not an easy decision, especially since solar will not really be cost effective that fast for us. But we are committed to generating our share of power.
This will be step one of three. Step two is installing a battery (there is no reason to do that now since we will never be generating more power than we are consuming with the barn array…and Rappahannock does not allow energy arbitrage on rates yet). Step three more panels, likely on the house or maybe a ground array. Who knows when those phases will kick in.
Before.
During.
After.
One side effect of all the tree work is that the winter solstice fire is completely built! Plenty of time to cure.
