Revolutionary Microgrid Technology
In a groundbreaking move, Domaine Carneros has successfully integrated a state-of-the-art microgrid system into its operations, boasting a remarkable 80% self-generation of energy for winery activities. This pioneering achievement, built in partnership with Schneider Electric, showcases the winery’s relentless pursuit of renewable energy independence.
- 614 upgraded solar panels generate 427 kilowatts of clean energy.
- 250KVA battery backup and generator provide seamless power during grid outages and store excess energy for use during peak demand.
- The system’s intelligent controls leverage AI to optimize energy usage in real-time, resulting in significant operational benefits, including annual savings of $70,000 and the ability to operate in “island mode” during grid outages.
The microgrid’s impressive capabilities enable Domaine Carneros to:
* Reduce carbon emissions by 375 metric tons of CO₂ annually, equivalent to powering 50 homes for a year
* Seamlessly integrate green technology throughout the visitor experience
* Power four electric vehicle charging stations for guests
This revolutionary technology not only supports the winery’s environmental goals but also enhances its operational efficiency and reliability.
Award-Winning Environmental Practices
Domaine Carneros’ dedication to sustainability has garnered numerous prestigious recognitions, solidifying its position as a leader in environmentally responsible business practices.
- 2025 RISE Leadership Award for Energy Efficiency and Savings
- 2024 City of Napa Leadership Recycling Award
- 2023 RISE Leadership Award for waste prevention and supply chain greening
- 2020 Napa Climate NOW! Climate Champion in the Business Category
- 2019 California Green Medal Business Award
These accolades demonstrate the winery’s unwavering commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices throughout its operations.
Comprehensive Sustainability Efforts
Beyond energy, Domaine Carneros implements a range of sustainability initiatives across its operations, including:
- Diverting approximately 90% of solid waste from landfills through composting, recycling, and reuse
- Recycling and reusing water used in production to irrigate estate vineyards
- Reusing 20-25% of packaging materials, saving over a million pieces since 2010
- Practicing Integrated Pest Management with owl boxes and beneficial cover crops
- Composting approximately 450,000 pounds of food waste since 2013
- Implementing lighter weight bottles to reduce shipping impacts
- Offsetting carbon emissions from wine club shipments
These efforts not only minimize the winery’s environmental impact but also enhance its commitment to responsible business practices.
About Domaine Carneros
Founded in 1987, Domaine Carneros reflects the vision of its founder, Champagne Taittinger, in creating a tradition of terroir-driven sparkling wine and preserving the quality tenets of the methode traditionelle of sparkling wine production. Located entirely within the Carneros AVA, the winery boasts six estate vineyards covering approximately 400 acres, with 150 acres planted to Chardonnay and 250 acres planted to Pinot Noir.
“Our commitment to environmental stewardship is fundamentally rooted in our estate vineyards under Allison Wilson’s visionary stewardship,” says Remi Cohen, CEO of Domaine Carneros. “This commitment is further demonstrated through two decades of solar energy innovation powering our winemaking, ensuring our tradition of excellence thrives sustainably for generations to come.”
As the winery continues to push the boundaries of sustainable winemaking, it remains a beacon of environmental responsibility and excellence in the wine industry.