Kihei, HI (August 9, 2019) – Maui Brewing Company is very proud to announce its recent award as “America’s Favorite Solar Craft Brewery of 2019” following six weeks of public voting which took place from May 6th through June 15th. In celebration of the title, MBC will be co-hosting a “Mahalo” party with Solar United Neighbors, the organization which promotes the “Brews From the Sun” competition, on Monday, August 12th in the MBC Kihei Tasting Room from 3:30pm – 5:30pm.
Sponsored by BrewSavor™ by NewAge® Industries, a solar-powered manufacturer of fluid transfer systems used in the brewing process, Brews from the Sun brought together solar and craft beer enthusiasts from around the country. This year, 12,334 votes were cast during the six-week competition by craft beer enthusiasts and solar energy supporters from around the country.
Forty-four breweries participated in three categories. MBC was listed among 15 Regional Breweries (as defined by the Brewers Association).
“We’re honored to be selected as America’s Favorite Solar Craft Brewery for 2019,” said Garrett Marrero, Maui Brewing Company’s Founder and CEO. “Since our beginning in 2005, Maui Brewing has always been committed to sustainability. Brewing our beer and now distilling spirits with grid-independence makes sense for our business and the environment. We’re leading the charge to demonstrate it is possible to manufacture high-quality beverages and be mindful of the community and the environment.”
Solar accounts for more than 80% of Maui Brewing’s electricity needs. By the end of the year they plan to be 100% powered by solar. Maui Brewing employs solar photovoltaic and solar thermal systems to provide electricity and hot water to brew the company’s beer. Maui Brewing’s 1.2 MW system was installed in 2017. MBC recently added battery storage to help achieve their goal of becoming grid-independent by the end of 2019.
Solar United Neighbors is a national non-profit organization that empowers people to go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights. It helps thousands of people go solar every year through bulk purchases known as “solar co-ops” as well as through a paid membership program. Members receive on-going support for their solar system, discounts to businesses that have solar, and join a community of solar supporters to ensure their investment in solar is protected.
“We are inspired by the many breweries around the country who are looking to the sun to power their beer,” said Anya Schoolman, Solar United Neighbors Executive Director. “They’re setting a great example not just for other breweries, but for everyone who can save money and take control of where their energy comes from by going solar.”
For a complete list of the 2019 America’s Favorite Solar-Powered Craft Breweries, visit https://www.brewsfromthesun.org/#vote
For more information on Maui Brewing Company, visit MauiBrewing.com or follow @MauiBrewingCo on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Founded in 2005, Maui Brewing Company is Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, operating 100% in Hawaii. MBC is based on Maui, with its production brewery, full service restaurant and tasting room in Kihei, well as restaurants in Lahaina (Maui), Kailua (Oahu), and Waikiki (Oahu). Maui Brewing Company is available in 23 states and 10 international countries with more areas to follow.