Green Accommodations at Land’s End

The Race Point Lighthouse relies on a hybrid, off-grid renewable energy system to meet the energy and water needs of visitors. The system includes five main components:

One PV system powers the navigation light itself - it is just barely visible at the bottom right of the photo. A second PV system was nestled in the dunes in 2003 to reduce reliance on a diesel generator to serve the Keeper’s House and the Whistle House. A 2.5-kW wind turbine was installed in 2007 to supplement the solar electric system and meet additional demands. Battery storage keeps things going when the sun is down (or obscured) and the winds aren’t blowing. Biodiesel is used to fuel the backup diesel generator when needed.

These renewable energy options supply electricity for lighting and other purposes, as well as the power required by a new reverse osmosis water filtration system. Beginning in 2008, guests will no longer need to bring their own drinking water.

The renewable energy systems were installed by Clean Energy Design. For more information on the Race Point Lighthouse and its seasonal accommodations, visit its website.

Photo courtesy Race Point Lighthouse