Stemilt achieves net‑zero energy usage milestone
Stemilt achieves net‑zero energy usage milestone
Stemilt achieved a major milestone in its sustainability journey: the company’s Stemilt Chinchiolo California (CSC) facility is on track to achieve net‑zero energy usage for its production warehouse through the completion of a two‑phase solar installation totaling 3,000 solar panels. The project positions Stemilt among a small number of packing and cold‑storage operations in California capable of fully offsetting their energy consumption through on‑site renewable generation.
The North Project, consisting of 1,500 panels, has been fully installed and is scheduled for PG&E connection next week. Final county approval is anticipated by mid‑April, enabling the system to begin generating power ahead of Earth Day on April 22. Earlier this month, the South Project began panel installation following completion of underground and infrastructure work. Because it ties directly into the North system, it does not require a separate PG&E sign‑off and is expected to be operational in May.
“By June 1, all 3,000 panels will be fully online,” said CSC General Manager Erick Stonebarger. “This project moved at an incredible pace, from the permitting process to infrastructure to installation. In just five to seven days, crews were able to install each field of panels, supported by efficient underground work and strong collaboration with local partners.”
Once fully operational, the solar panels will generate enough clean electricity to meet 100 percent of the packingshed’s energy needs for the next 20 years, bringing the facility to true net‑zero status. This achievement is particularly significant for a combined packing and cold‑storage operation, where energy demands are high and few facilities in California, and even fewer in Washington, can feasibly reach net‑zero due to cost and infrastructure constraints.
“Harvesting the sun is something we’ve always done through our fruit,” said Stonebarger. “Now we’re harvesting it twice, through our orchards and through renewable energy that powers our operations. Over the next 25 years, the system will generate enough clean energy to offset the equivalent of removing 281 cars from the road or planting 456 trees.”
The timing of the installation aligns with Earth month, underscoring Stemilt’s long‑standing dedication to environmental stewardship through its Responsible Choice sustainability and social responsibility program. By Earth Day, the full solar field will be installed to mark the milestone.
“This project is a tangible example of how we’re investing in long‑term sustainability across our operations,” said Stonebarger. “Achieving net‑zero energy at a major production facility is a significant step, and it reflects our commitment to doing what’s right for the environment, our communities, and the future of farming.”
