Case Studies

Valley Wide Beverages Microgrid

2 MIN READ

Valley Wide Beverage is utilizing Generac ARC’s microgrid control system to optimize around local utility tariffs, leveraging demand charge management and time-of-use rates to reduce operating costs every day.

As a premier beverage distributor operating 24/7, Valley Wide Beverage’s state-of-the-art distribution center in Fresno, CA, is powered by a robust microgrid system that includes 1.5 MW of solar and 330 kWh of battery storage. Generac’s ARC controller monitors PV production, battery charging, and site load in real time—delivering a high-performance, solar powered microgrid that maximizes renewable integration and savings.

This microgrid solution was deployed in partnership with Valley Unique Electric, a trusted local solar contractor. The team appreciated the ARC system’s remote capabilities and microgrid software, which provided complete visibility into performance, alarms, and diagnostics—allowing them to monitor and troubleshoot without stepping foot onsite.

ARC intelligently prioritizes self-consumption and demand charge reduction by automatically shifting loads and discharging batteries during peak Time-of-Use (TOU) periods. During daylight hours, the facility's solar array generates more power than needed—enough to charge the battery and export excess energy to the grid. At sunset, ARC discharges the batteries to offset peak loads and hit demand charge setpoints.

Operating under PG&E’s E-19 tariff for Medium General Demand-Metered TOU Service, Valley Wide Beverage faces nearly $25/kW in demand charges. ARC’s advanced microgrid technology analyzes both historical and real-time data to set dynamic monthly demand thresholds. When evening load spikes occur, ARC responds by discharging battery reserves—effectively eliminating costly energy peaks.

As a qualified SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program) site, Valley Wide Beverage benefits further from Generac’s role as a Performance Data Provider. ARC submits automated monthly reports, reducing administrative burden and enhancing the financial return on the battery storage investment.

This installation exemplifies how a well-designed commercial microgrid can deliver not just resilience, but smart, sustainable business outcomes.