Seaside Market goes solar

CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — Funded in part by a façade grant from Cardiff 101 MainStreet, Seaside Market has installed a 3.8kW system by Stellar Solar on its front awning to help offset their electricity consumption. The system is the first solar installation on an Encinitas grocery store.
Seaside Market has made the system the first step toward a planned rooftop installation that will generate significantly more power. Cardiff 101 MainStreet provides funds for the improvement of area storefront facades.
Besides the electricity generated, the system, which is considered one of the most visually appealing anywhere, will expose Seaside’s customers to solar every time they shop. It will be supplemented by an interactive kiosk that will enable customers to learn more about going solar.
“I am thrilled to be taking this small, but highly visible first step towards reducing our electricity consumption,” said Seaside Market owner John Najjar. “The exposure this will provide to the local community is sure to increase awareness and adoption of solar energy. We are a local, independent market that has worked with local growers and vendors far before that movement came into fashion. Hopefully this inspires area residents and businesses to follow our lead.”
“This is by far the most beautiful display of solar we have ever been a part of,” Kent Harle, founder and president of Stellar Solar, said. “Seaside has an amazing location and a great looking building, so the addition of the elegant black SunPower panels makes it even more impressive.”