Four Projects Result In 750,000 Kwh Of Clean Energy; Enough To Power 125 Homes
Vermont Business Magazine The Essex Resort & Spa, along with its sister properties the Essex Experience and Essex Cinemas, have made a huge commitment to generating clean solar energy to power the properties. They’ve partnered with SunCommon, Vermont’s leading commercial solar provider, for clean energy from the sun, keeping their electricity costs stable and reducing their reliance on fossil fuel-reliant sources.
Starting in the fall of 2025, SunCommon has been up on roofs at the Resort, starting with its new 4,968 square foot event space, The Farmhouse (119kW). Creating a green, sustainable venue makes it a perfect locale for everything from family gatherings to corporate parties, especially for eco-conscious guests.
This summer, SunCommon has continued its work on the main property of The Essex Resort & Spa (133kW) and its sister property, the Essex Experience (an additional 223kW).
And coming this fall, SunCommon will complete the four projects with a gorgeous parking lot canopy (213kW). Made from engineered timber, the canopy provides a beautiful, natural structure that is nearly as strong as steel. The eye-catching design also significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to a steel structure.
To fund this work, SunCommon helped the Resort secure a USDA REAP grant in 2024 to support the 4 new solar projects at The Essex Resort & Spa. Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) was instrumental in securing the balance of financing for the projects.
Once completed, the projects will sustain 75% of The Essex Resort & Spa’s energy needs.
“The Essex Resort & Spa and their sister properties have been so committed to providing guests with a true Vermont experience which now includes the knowledge that their stay will be fueled by clean energy from the sun,” said Mike McCarthy, President of SunCommon. “Instead of paying high electric bills, The Essex Resort can commit their resources to what matters most: providing a world-class stay for their guests.”
"We're incredibly pleased with the planning, coordination, and partnership Mike and the entire SunCommon team brought to this project from the very beginning," said Peter Edelmann, Owner of The Essex Resort & Spa, Essex Experience, and Essex Cinemas. "The trust and support from VEDA were instrumental in putting the financing together, and the USDA REAP program helped make these projects financially achievable. As the saying goes, it takes a village, and we're grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life. We're proud to do our small part in moving our planet forward in a positive direction while investing in a more sustainable future for our guests, our community, and Vermont."
About SunCommon
SunCommon is a market solution to climate change with a purpose beyond profit. As Vermont’s largest solar provider and a NYSERDA Quality Installer in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region of New York, we believe that everyone has the right to a healthy environment and brighter future – and renewable energy is where it starts. SunCommon is a Certified B Corp based on a rigorous third party assessment of our commitment to the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit. Our mission is to tear down barriers to clean energy and use our business as a force for good. For more information, go to www.suncommon.com and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram @suncommon.
About The Essex Resort & Spa
The Essex Resort & Spa is a full service resort perfect for a Vermont getaway. The resort provides comfortable rooms, on-site dining, a full-service spa, and seasonal outdoor activities. Just across the bridge from the resort, The Essex Experience offers shops, dining, and entertainment. For more information, go to www.essexresort.com.
July 13, 2026, Essex, VT– The Essex Resort & Spa
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Vermont Business Magazine