Let the sun shine in.
The Burrowing Estate Winery, an industry leader in sustainable viticulture and winemaking, is hosting a special solar day Saturday, April. 6.
Having installed it’s first panels 13 years ago, the winery has continued to improve its use of solar to the point where it now produces enough energy to power 25 homes.
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That use ranges from the administrative offices and guest house to heating the swimming pool.
In 2017 eight electric vehicle charging stations were installed for staff and visitor use and a new covered parking structure has added more solar panels to the overall initiative.
The April 6 event is one of series of similar exhibitions organized by First Things First Okanagan, a non-profit group dedicated to promoting climate-change awareness and finding solutions “for a better future.”
On hand that day will be a number of exhibitors and visitors will have a chance to see some of the latest electric car models and talk to owners and dealers.
People will also have an opportunity to take a spin on an electric bicycle, check out electric quads and see a new line of Kelowna-made electric boats.
Industry experts will also be on hand to talk about the benefits of of installing solar panels in homes.
Speakers will include Burrowing Owl founder Jim Wyse discussing the winery’s environmental initiatives at 11 a.m., Carol Suhan of Fortis BC on energy-related rebates at 1 p.m., Bruce Stout of the Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association about his cross-country trip in a Tesla electric vehicle at 2 p.m. and Gord Lovegrove of the University of British Columbia Okanagan on an electric rail system in the Okanagan at 3 p.m.
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A grab-and-go BBQ-style sandwich will be available: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Regular Sonora Room lunch available: Noon to 4:30 p.m.
Wine Shop hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The winery is located at 500 Burrowing Owl Place between Oliver and Osoyoos. This is a free event.
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Mark Brett | Reporter
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