Castle & Key Distillery announced the completion of Phase 1 of a major solar energy project as part of its ongoing sustainability initiatives. 

With this investment, the distillery is further solidifying its commitment to renewable energy, harnessing solar power across more than an acre of space, while continuing to produce high-quality spirits. The $2 million investment was supported by the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant, a federal initiative aimed at helping rural small businesses transition to renewable energy sources, reduce energy costs, and enhance American energy independence.

“At Castle & Key, sustainability is woven into every part of our production process,” Will Arvin, Co-Founder of Castle & Key, said in a news release. “Our solar energy investment is one of the latest steps we’re taking to reduce our environmental impact, and we are working against a 30-year planning process. This initiative reduces the distillery’s carbon footprint, lowers energy costs, and reinforces our commitment to responsible innovation. We are proud to be part of a growing movement in Kentucky, working toward a more sustainable future for our community and our industry.”

Castle & Key’s solar energy system is installed at the distillery’s Versailles Warehouse in Woodford County, Kentucky, and is designed to provide a substantial portion of the distillery’s energy needs. The first phase of the project, which is now complete, covers 20,950 square feet and features 754 solar panels, generating 407.16 kW DC and 400 kW AC. The entire system will cover 63,350 square feet, generating 960kW AC. 

“Every drop of Castle & Key whiskey is crafted with care for the land and this is the largest solar project at a distillery in Woodford county,” Charles Crume, Engineering and Maintenance Manager, Castle & Key, said. “Currently we are using 25 percent of the total solar production capacity. The remaining excess power is sold back to Kentucky Utilities as a green power source for the community to power homes, businesses and facilities. On average this will equate to 270-350 homes in the community based on average power usage.” 

Castle & Key plans to continue expanding its renewable energy efforts and Phase 2 is anticipated to begin spring of 2025. The second phase will include the installment of more solar panels and ongoing work with responsible partners including Walnut Grove Farms, Saverglass, Malteurop North America, Speyside Cooperage, and Eurostampa. 

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ABOUT CASTLE & KEY  

Castle & Key is steeped in Kentucky distilling history. With its stunning site dating back to 1887, the distillery is known both as the birthplace of bourbon hospitality and for the high-quality Kentucky spirits made there today. In 2014, Co-Founder Will Arvin began restoring The Old Taylor Distillery — which had fallen to ruin after decades of neglect — with a vision of creating an immersive distillery experience.  Today, the restored distillery has become a popular travel destination for enthusiasts of spirits and history alike. For information about Castle & Key’s spirit offerings, tours, and tastings, visit CastleAndKey.com.