BREWERY VIVANT

Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

Renewable energy has been a goal for Brewery Vivant since it opened. Through the recent installation of a 192 solar panel array, the brewery will be able to surpass their goal by producing 20% of its energy needs using the sun. They partnered with non-profit Michigan-based Renovo Energy, LLC to complete the project.

The 54Kw system covers the chapel (pub) roof and adjacent brewery facility. In addition, Brewery Vivant purchases renewable energy through Consumers Power and its Green Generations program, making their facility powered 100% by renewable energy.

This is the latest effort in the owners’ ongoing commitment to sustainability, which has lead to their facility being awarded LEED silver certification from the USGBC, B-corp certification, and Bicycle Friendly Business status. The solar power will also help the brewery meet the ongoing demands on their recent production expansion.

The brewery recently installed three new 60-barrel fermentation tanks to bring their annual capacity from 5,000 barrels (31 gal/barrel) to 9,000.

 

About Brewery Vivant

The brewery is located in the East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids, in a renovated funeral chapel built in the early 1900’s. Their staff of around 60 employees specialize in Belgian/French inspired beers and fare in a completely unique setting. Husband and wife partners Jason and Kris Spaulding opened the doors for business in December of 2010. Vivant beers are distributed throughout Michigan and the greater Chicago area. They are the first commercial brewery in the nation to receive Silver LEED Certification from the USGBC.