Tag Archive for: solar energy

A brewery in Avondale Estates said it has become the first in DeKalb County to be powered by solar energy.

The Lost Druid, which opened last year near Avondale’s city center, recently installed a large solar panel on its roof from Georgia-based firm Velo Solar, according to a statement from the company.

The brewery makes its own beer at the 6,800-square-foot facility, which also includes a taproom, aging facility, kitchen and event space.

The solar installation is expected to produce 21,514 kilowatt hours of power every year, which could reduce the business’ annual power bill by as much as 15%, Velo Solar said. It will also reduce the brewery’s carbon footprint.

The Druids respected nature, and this is one of numerous measures we employ to minimize our impact on the environment.
Stacia Familo-Hopekowner and co-founder, THe Lost Druid

Britt Lothridge, the director of sales for Velo Solar, said more businesses should think about using solar energy to power their operations.

“They not only pay less for electricity month-to-month, they also reduce reliance on fossil fuels,” Lothridge said.

In Athens, Terrapin Beer Co. installed a solar array on its rooftop and solar-panel sunshades in its parking lot last fall, becoming the first brewery in Georgia to purchase renewable power at its facility.


First published 1/22/20 at ajc.com by J.D. Capelouto, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution