Committed to sustainability and preserving the environment, The Cliff House Resort and Spa has installed one of Maine's largest solar thermal systems. The installation uses 2,100 tubes on 70 collectors. That's 10 times the size of an average solar project.

The solar installation will save an estimated 11,000 gallons of propane annually and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 140,000 lbs. per year.

Solar energy will be used to provide heat and hot water for the Resort's Spa building, which includes 32 guest rooms and 10 treatment rooms. The Resort estimates it will reduce fossil fuel consumption in this building by 30%.

"The beauty of Maine's natural environment is unparalleled," states resort owner Kathryn Weare. "Keeping it that way is one of our highest priorities, and utilizing solar energy is the largest component of our sustainability initiatives to date."

Cimino Construction Co. of Scarborough erected the structural steel framework that supports the solar collectors and supervised the project. John P. Cimino, owner and president, says, "This puts the Cliff House in front of any similar facility in the State of Maine. It shows they are very serious about securing alternative sources of energy. They're environmentally conscious and they acted on it."

A grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as well as federal tax credits helped offset project costs and reduce payback to less than six years.

The project was completed entirely by Maine-based businesses. General Contracting services were provided by Nelson and Small Energy Conservation Products, Inc., an affiliate of Nelson and Small, Inc., the Contractor/Installer for Kingspan Solar Thermal Systems.

Other Maine-based companies working on the project were: Cimino Construction Co., Harriman Associates, Johnson and Jordan, James McBrady Steel Fabricators, Steve McBrady Roofing. American Aerial Services, Inc. and Portland Insulation. Construction loan financing was provided by Norway Savings Bank and permanent financing will be provided by Finance Authority of Maine.

The Cliff House Resort and Spa is a Maine DEP-certified Environmental Leader. Other green initiatives at the Resort include energy efficient lighting, natural cork flooring in the Spa, organic fertilizers and the use of fresh, local ingredients in its cuisine.