Boxerwood has always relied on energy generated from fossil fuels for heat, power, and light, but no longer. We have reached the end of that era. We’ve found our green path.
Big news: Boxerwood is now officially running on clean, renewable energy. As described in last month’s article, the 11.05 kW solar array installed in the Boxerwood back field went live on March 1. The array is sized to cover 100% of energy needs in the Boxerwood lodge and also powers the pump for the NEWTS system.
In tandem with this big step, we are also increasing energy efficiency and conservation in the Lodge. Anticipating the transition to solar, we installed efficient mini-split heat pumps two years ago. Next up is installing a highly efficient on-demand electric water heater for all our needs.
We’re also reducing heat loss by replacing the Lodge’s 70-year old windows. Most of these windows are single-pane aluminum fixtures-- and super leaky. The new Anderson brand is energy efficient and will reduce energy needs in winter when the solar array is less productive. Thank you to donors who contributed to this effort, and volunteers who will commence the first installations this April.
Another conservation challenge has been the Lodge fireplace. With help from a kind donor, the a handsome new Matherly insert now prevents unmanageable heat loss up the Lodge chimney. This cast iron stove also enables us to supplement electric heat with carbon-neutral fuel: wood already felled for safety reasons from our own property. It also gives us a source of reliable back-up heat, not to mention heart-warming charm.
As with many things in life: if not now, then when? With your help, Boxerwood has let go old ways, and embraced the new. These efficient technologies model the kinds of home-based conservation actions others can take too. Come have a look, and get inspired!
