A visionary experiment, a model for the future.
Situated in a quaint New Jersey town, is a shining example of sustainable development: a two acre solar field that powers a thoughtfully designed mixed-use complex known as The Village Green at Annandale.
In 2010, Richard Meurer, owner of Meurer Development and its sister company Green Power Energy, envisioned an adaptive reuse project in Annandale that would involve renovating existing structures and outfitting them with solar components and energy efficient internal mechanicals. With this plan in mind, Meurer acquired an old lumberyard along with its outbuildings of various sizes, all conveniently located at Annandale’s New Jersey Transit Station.
However, the original plan soon expanded into something more ambitious: the site, formerly known as Warren Lumber, would be transformed into a sustainable mixed-use complex, fully powered by a 322 kW solar farm. Conceived as a “green village,” the innovative complex would serve commuters who passed through the train station, incorporate residential development and open up flexible, green office space to corporate and retail tenants.
Today, The Village Green at Annandale’s electric needs are supplied by a ballasted ground mounted solar installation on a contiguous property adjacent to the village complex. Generating approximately 390,000 kWh a year, the array we refer to as our solar farm powers multiple commercial and residential buildings, including Green Power Energy’s office. The system provides enough electricity to completely sustain the complex, freeing the tenants from any reliance on conventional energy sources like fossil fuels and nuclear power. It also provides an additional source of revenue to the village as the electricity generated on site can be sold to tenants or incorporated into their lease agreements.
The beautiful, autonomous, energy independent community we’ve developed is living proof that green building and renewable energy systems can be attractive, productive, profitable and seamlessly integrated into a traditional neighborhood. Our innovative solar farm and thriving green village demonstrate what’s possible: With careful planning and smart investment, America can build a stronger economy, energy independence and a brighter future.
We’re pioneering that future right here in New Jersey—and we’re here to show you how you can invest in your own solar farm and be part of the coming green energy revolution.