Neil Kelly Company, an award-winning design-build remodeling firm, is about to raise 400 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels onto the rooftop of Best Western Inn at the Meadows in North Portland making it among the first “solar” hotels in Portland. However, the benefits reach far beyond pride and recognition. The environmental benefits of this project include avoiding more than 100,000 pounds of carbon emissions annually, which is the equivalent of removing 15 passenger vehicles from the road or planting 1,500 trees every year.

“We looked into solar for many reasons,” states Albert Lee, manager of Best Western Inn at the Meadows. “One of the main reasons was to save costs on our utility bills. With the current energy incentives and tax benefits installing solar panels is a cost effective choice. We also liked that we were helping the environment.”

Neil Kelly Company designed a 100-kilowatt PV system, which serves 30 percent of the hotel’s electrical load, captures $72,500 in cash rebates, and provides the basis for federal investment and depreciation tax credits of more than $212,000. The system is built using locally manufactured SolarWorld photovoltaic modules, which carry a 25 year production warranty.

“Small and large business owners alike wonder if they can receive a return-on-investment by installing a solar energy system, it can be confusing,” states Chad Ruhoff, VP Energy Services for Neil Kelly Company. “We like to eliminate the guess work for our clients with a detailed site audit and financial analysis. With the current incentives through Energy Trust of Oregon and tax rebates, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of this clean energy source.”

Neil Kelly Company project manager, Jason Jepsen adds, "My hat is off to the entire Lee Family and Best Western for taking the energy efficiency lead in the hospitality market. Their example of deep-energy retrofits inspires others to benefit their business, community and planet with cost-effective energy upgrades."

The project is scheduled for completion by July, 2015 and the socially responsible North Portland hotel plans to add a lobby kiosk to educate guests about the hotel’s energy and sustainability efforts.

About Best Western Inn at the Meadows:

BEST WESTERN Inn at the Meadows has a reputation as one of the best values in Portland accommodation. The property offers 146 guest rooms, more than 1,100 square feet of meeting space, and a range of amenities. Ranked among TripAdvisor’s Green Leaders and awarded of their Badge of Excellence for 2014, the hotel strives to provide guests with an outstanding hospitality experience at a great price.�