Canadian beer made with solar power gets sunny reception

Randy and Denise Rowe say they’ve tripled their craft beer production three years after launching Off Grid Ales on the shores of Harvey Lake.

Using only solar panels and a wind turbine to generate power, the Rowes have expanded their output from six barrels per week to as many as 20 barrels at their business about 45 kilometers southwest of Fredericton. That means they can now distribute up to 8,000 bottles of beer per month to liquor stores across the southern half of New Brunswick, and they’re providing kegs to a growing number of bars and restaurants.

“I could double the power again,” Randy said when asked what would help him to further expand.