When it was time to replace an aging greenhouse, Moonfire and Sun Garden Center in Bend opted for a model that’s not only larger but very energy efficient. The new 36-by-50-foot greenhouse is made of twin-wall polycarbonate—providing an extra layer of insulation compared to single-wall construction. In addition to providing excellent conditions for plant propagation, the greenhouse doubles as an expanded retail space for the garden center, which is also a re-wholesaler for local landscapers.
“The new greenhouse is surprisingly inexpensive to heat considering our colder climate and the fact that it’s 30% larger,” said Brandon Reese, co-owner. “It’s so comfortable inside we’ve been able to expand its use to hosting night-time classes on gardening and wreath making, community meetings and other activities.”
Moonfire and Sun received an Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentive of $3,500 to help offset the extra cost of the twin-wall polycarbonate, which is saving the garden center an estimated $1,000 in annual natural gas costs. “The cash incentive really softened the blow of investing in energy efficiency,” Reese said. Moonfire and Sun worked directly with their greenhouse vendor to learn about offerings for nurseries and to select the greenhouse.
“Energy Trust’s paperwork was very easy, and because we’re also a landscaping company, we were able to do our own in-house construction and installation,” Reese said. “Overall, we’re very pleased. Customers are better able to see the larger greenhouse from the street. They comment on the pleasant environment. The greenhouse offers better mobility for customers with wheelchairs or walkers. And our retail sales have definitely increased.”
Could your nursery benefit from energy-efficiency upgrades? Energy Trust offers rebates and calculated cash incentives for Oregon customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista. Your vendor can help you identify the most cost-effective improvements and apply for cash incentives. For more information, visit www.energytrust.org/greenhouse or call 503.928.3154.