Lawson’s Finest Liquids installs largest solar canopy in state of Vermont

Lawson’s Finest Liquids‘ Brewery and Taproom in Waitsfield, Vermont, is now home to the largest solar canopy in the state. Built by SunCommon, the structure features 495 individual solar modules seated above 40 covered parking spaces and 10 level-two electric vehicle charging stations.

The project was built throughout 2021 and early 2022 and showcases Lawson’s Finest’s commitment to sustainable practices as part of their Green is Grand initiative within the Social Impact Program (SIP). They first installed Brewery solar panels in 2019, an independent wastewater management system in 2018 and they partner with local businesses to responsibly recycle spent grain and byproducts.

“When my wife Karen and I started Lawson’s Finest, values were at the center of what we wanted to do with our business,” said Sean Lawson, CEO and Founding Brewer of Lawson’s Finest Liquids. “From the beginning we set out to be the finest, source the best ingredients, invest in state-of-the-art equipment, brew the best beer possible and cultivate healthy, vibrant communities. That’s why our efforts in sustainability and striving to power our brewery through renewable energy are so important to us.”

Before the installation of the new solar canopy, Lawson’s Finest Liquids generated approximately 10 percent of its energy needs from existing rooftop solar panels on the Brewery. With the addition of the new solar array generating 215-kW across 495 modules, about 60 percent of the Waitsfield Brewery’s operations will be powered by solar energy. In terms of beer, this means around 2.4 million cans annually of Lawson’s Finest brews will be produced using solar energy.

“Businesses like Lawson’s show us that it’s possible to provide great products, grow to meaningful scale, and generate financial success all while creating increasingly positive impact on the communities where Vermonters live and work,” said Duane Peterson, co-founder at SunCommon, “We’re stoked to partner with Lawson’s to further expand their sustainable practices. Now we can all enjoy a ‘Sip of Sunshine’ in more ways than one!” 

To celebrate the completion of the parking canopy and continued dedication to sustainability and green energy, Lawson’s Finest Liquids will be hosting an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at its Waitsfield Brewery and Taproom on Earth Day, April 2 from 10-11 am. Vermont’s renewable energy leaders will be in attendance to celebrate Lawson’s Finest solar power expansion.