2023 Warwick Retreat Community Solar Farm

Executive Summary:

Phase I:  COMPLETED - Warwick, NY Net Zero home (2,444 sqft.; 5+ yrs. of energy data).

Phase II: Warwick Retreat community solar farm is an innovative and sustainable solution that aims to provide clean and affordable energy to Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) residents and to our local community at large. By harnessing the power of the sun, we will generate electricity through photovoltaic panels and distribute it to participating households, businesses, and institutions. Our business model allows individuals who cannot install solar panels on their own properties to access the benefits of solar energy, reducing their carbon footprint and saving on their energy bills. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment, we believe our community solar farm will make a significant impact on the local energy landscape while fostering a sense of unity and sustainability within our community.  Our efforts align with the solar goals of the Town of Warwick, a recipient of the SolSmart Gold designation.

Business Description:

As a Commercial and industrial (C&I) solar provider, Warwick Retreat projects will be strategically located on large plots of land that receive abundant sunlight throughout the year. Solar projects will consist of a substantial array of solar panels, connected to an advanced grid system that enables the efficient distribution of electricity. The facilities will be designed and constructed using state-of-the-art technologies to maximize energy generation and minimize environmental impact. 

Utility scale battery storage will be a critical component. Together solar and storage will increase grid reliability, improve grid resilience and reduce community reliance on fossil fuels.  Our business will operate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), ensuring a strong legal and financial framework for our operations.  An additional SPV may be created for project financing.

Market Analysis:

The demand for clean energy sources is rapidly increasing as individuals and organizations recognize the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy solutions. Our target market consists of residential customers, commercial entities, and public institutions within a 50-mile radius of our solar farm. We will conduct extensive market research to identify potential customers and assess their energy consumption patterns and requirements. Additionally, we will collaborate with local utility companies and government agencies to leverage existing infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. By tapping into this growing market and addressing the needs of energy-conscious consumers, we anticipate substantial demand for our community solar farm.

Competitive Analysis:

While there may be existing solar farms in the area, we believe our community solar farm will differentiate itself through its emphasis on community involvement, affordability, and customer-centric approach. Our key competitive advantages include:

1. Community Focus: Our project will actively engage the local community, providing opportunities for LMI residents and businesses to become stakeholders in the solar farm. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and community pride.
2. Affordability: By eliminating the need for individual solar installations, our community solar farm allows customers to access solar energy without the high upfront costs. Participants will benefit from discounted electricity rates, reducing their energy expenses.
3. Customer Experience: We are committed to providing exceptional customer service, offering transparent billing, and regular communication channels to address customer inquiries or concerns promptly.

Sales and Marketing Plan:

Our sales and marketing strategy will be centered around raising awareness of the benefits of community solar and creating a strong brand presence. Key elements of our plan include:

1. Targeted Advertising: Focused on LMI residents, we will employ various advertising channels such as local newspapers, radio, online platforms, and social media to reach our target audience. Emphasizing the environmental and financial advantages of participating in our community solar farm will be the focal point of our messaging.
2. Community Outreach: We will actively engage with local community organizations, host informational sessions, and participate in community events to educate and recruit potential customers. Building strong relationships with local businesses, schools, and other institutions will be a priority.
3. Referral Programs: To incentivize customer acquisition, we will develop referral programs that reward existing participants for referring new customers to our solar farm.

Ownership and Management Plan:

Our community solar farm will be owned by the founding members of the LLC, who will provide the initial capital investment. To ensure effective management and decision-making, a Board of Directors will be established, consisting of experienced professionals from various relevant fields, such as renewable energy, finance, and marketing. Additionally, a management team will oversee day-to-day operations, including maintenance, customer support, and financial management.

Operating Plan:

The operational success of our C&I projects rely on efficient maintenance, effective energy  generation and storage, and seamless customer service. Key aspects of our operating plan include:

1. Construction and Installation: We will hire expert and experienced contractors and engineers to design and construct the solar farm, ensuring that it adheres to industry standards and local regulations. The installation will be completed within a specified timeframe to expedite the energy generation and storage process.
2. Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance inspections will be conducted to optimize panel performance and promptly address any issues. We will establish partnerships with reputable maintenance providers to ensure timely repairs and minimize downtime.
3. Customer Support: Our customer support team will be available to address inquiries, billing questions, and provide assistance in accessing and monitoring their solar energy production. We will leverage technology, such as an online portal, to streamline customer interactions and facilitate self-service options.

Financial Plan:

The financial viability of our community solar farm is a critical aspect of our business plan. Key components of our financial plan include:

1. Revenue Streams: We will generate revenue through the sale of solar energy to participants, who will pay a subscription fee based on their energy consumption. We will also explore opportunities to sell excess energy to the local utility grid (Orange & Rockland), potentially generating additional income.
2. Capital Investment: Initial capital investment will be sourced from the founding members and potentially supplemented through loans or grants. We will prepare a detailed budget, accounting for construction, equipment, operating expenses, and contingencies.
3. Operating Expenses: We will carefully manage operating expenses, including staff salaries, maintenance costs, insurance, marketing expenditures, and administrative overheads. Regular financial analysis and reporting will ensure effective cost control.
4. Financial Projections: Based on market analysis and projected customer acquisition, we will create financial projections for the next five years, including revenue forecasts, expense estimates, and return on investment calculations. These projections will be periodically reviewed and adjusted as necessary to ensure financial stability and growth.

In conclusion, our community solar farm is a forward-thinking and sustainable venture that aligns with the growing demand for clean energy solutions. By leveraging community involvement, affordability, and a customer-centric approach, we are confident in our ability to establish a successful and impactful business that benefits both the environment and our local Warwick community.

 Warwick Development Timeline: