Energy Solutions for Cannabis Facilities
Cannabis facilities are among the most energy-intensive operations in commercial real estate, with cultivation centers using 20-40 times more electricity per square foot than typical warehouses. From HVAC and lighting to dehumidification and processing, energy costs can consume 30-50% of operating budgets. We deliver turnkey energy solutions designed specifically for the unique demands of cannabis operations—high-intensity lighting, precise climate control, 24/7 operations, and strict regulatory compliance.
Industry Challenges
- •Extreme energy intensity (20-40x typical warehouse)
- •Energy costs 30-50% of operating budget
- •High demand charges from lighting and HVAC
- •Strict security and compliance requirements
- •24/7 reliability for crop protection
- •Limited financing options for cannabis businesses
- •Utility rate discrimination in some markets
- •Rapid expansion straining electrical capacity
Key Benefits
- ✓Reduce energy costs by 45-65%
- ✓Eliminate or drastically reduce demand charges
- ✓Protect crops with backup power
- ✓Meet sustainability and social equity goals
- ✓Improve profitability and competitiveness
- ✓Qualify for cannabis-specific financing
- ✓Enhance property value and exit potential
- ✓Future-proof against rate increases
Tailored Solutions for Cannabis Facilities
Solar PV Systems (Rooftop & Carport)
Offset daytime energy consumption with high-efficiency solar arrays sized for your cultivation schedule. Typical 200kW-1MW+ systems reduce utility costs by 40-60%.
Combined Heat & Power (CHP)
Generate electricity while capturing waste heat for dehumidification and climate control. Ideal for cultivation facilities with simultaneous cooling and heating needs. 70-85% total efficiency.
Battery Energy Storage
Store solar energy for nighttime use and eliminate devastating demand charges. Provides backup power to protect crops during outages. Typical 500kWh-2MWh systems.
LED Lighting Retrofits
Upgrade from HPS to high-efficiency LED grow lights reducing lighting energy by 40-50% while improving yield and spectrum control.
Advanced Energy Management
Real-time monitoring and optimization of HVAC, lighting, and dehumidification systems. Automated demand response to avoid peak charges.
Microgrid Solutions
Integrate solar, storage, CHP, and grid power into a resilient microgrid ensuring your crops are always protected.
Success Story
Southern CA Cultivation: 750kW Solar + 1MWh Battery + CHP
200,000 sq ft indoor cultivation facility with $95,000/month energy costs, facing expansion constraints due to utility capacity limits and devastating demand charges.