Press Release

Placerville, Calif. - November 3, 2003 - Premier Power installs 14.4kW solar electric system for Sierra Vista Vineyards And Winery, makeing it one of the largest photovoltaic systems in El Dorado County.

When John and Barbara MacCready of Sierra Vista Winery opened their first bill and saw it was only $11, they knew they had made the right decision. "The only cost comes from the solar panels and the installation of the system, which is reasonable once you factor in the rebates for about 50% of the cost of the installed system, federal and state tax credits, and the special accelerated depreciation advantages", said John MacCready. The utilization of solar panels will absorb the highest cost of electricity use in the production of wine at the Sierra Vista.

It was under Premier Power's guidance and experience that Sierra Vista Winery decided to start spinning its electric meter backward and conserving energy. Because the solar electric system is connected to the PG&E grid, it is capable of selling electricity back to PG&E, a program known as Net Metering.

Another benefit for Sierra Vista Winery in using solar power is the environmental conservation. The use of photovoltaic energy utilizes no hazardous materials, produces no hazardous waste, and is essentially a clean, green, naturally-produced resource from the sun.

"These systems will pay for themselves within four to seven years, then it's free electricity which translates to money in the bank. The environmental benefits alone make installing a solar electric system one of best things a winery can do", says Dean Marks, President of Premier Power.

Integrating solar electricity into their energy mix, Sierra Vista is lowering their operating costs and reducing purchases of expensive tier rates of electricity. Sierra Vista is improving the health and quality of life in El Dorado County, while contributing to the sustainability and energy independence in California.