The Headwaters Center blends history with innovation—designed using materials from the past and powered by the energy systems of the future.
Constructed from a disassembled and relocated Civil War-era barn originally from Ohio, this unique facility in Winter Park, Colorado, is a model for sustainable development. The Headwaters Center is completely off-grid, operating independently from the electric utility thanks to a self-sufficient, off-grid microgrid system.
The facility derives most of its power from the sun through an onsite solar powered microgrid, storing energy in a 300 kWh battery system. Much of the building’s load—including HVAC and air handling systems—is powered directly from the DC bus. AC loads are supported by Princeton Power’s grid-forming inverters, and the system uses backup natural gas generators only when necessary.
At the core of the energy infrastructure is the Generac Link microgrid control system, which acts as the primary user interface and control hub. This advanced microgrid technology delivers real-time performance monitoring, intelligent load management, and seamless coordination of solar, storage, and generator assets—enabling the site to operate in a generator-off mode as conditions allow.
By combining reclaimed architectural materials with cutting-edge microgrid software and controls, the Headwaters Center stands as a beacon of energy independence, environmental stewardship, and design innovation.
