Darrell Brownlow, a fifth-generation Texan, considers solar a beneficial home addition because it’s low maintenance, offers energy independence, and is able to sustain efficient energy production for decades. This made it a perfection addition for bringing a modern to twist to his South Texas Ranch dubbed Rancho Carrizo.
A Little Background on this South Texas Ranch
Brownlow is a geologist who grew up on his family’s ranch in Floresville, right outside of San Antonio. The ranch has been in the family for over a century and continues to be handed down over generations. Eventually, Brownlow and his wife moved back to the ranch from Lubbock, Texas once their kids grew up and left the nest.
However, Brownlow and his wife wanted to transform the family ranch into a unique, modern home. They wanted something that showcased all of the things that he and his wife love. Panoramic views of the sunrise and sunset, and scenic drives home thanks to the road carved from the main highway through the forest. The preserved land where wildlife thrive is dear to them as well. Rancho Carrizo essentially became their getaway destination right at home.
“We want a place that meets a lot of standards and attributes in things that we believed in, things that we appreciated, and things that we enjoyed,” Brownwell says. “We wanted something that was totally unique, but that was low maintenance. That was the key.”
Going Solar in South Texas at Rancho Carrizo
Rancho Carrizo’s rooftop solar system sits above the tree line at the highest topographic point between Central Texas and the Gulf of Mexico. As a result, the panels receive enough direct sunlight to produce 75% to 150% of their daily consumption. This makes it possible to feed energy back to the local grid. Brownwell’s panels at Rancho Carrizo generate enough energy to light up houses all over Texas.
Since going solar in 2020, Brownwell has expanded his system twice. This is thanks to an ideal roof slope and an abundance of sunlight pouring over the home. A perfect setup, climate, and general environment makes it difficult not to expand. Acquiring a home solar installation was a practical choice that moves the home in the right direction in terms of smart, sustainable living.
Brownwell’s house is a perfect example of low-impact development and sustainable construction. “We want to do as many things as we can do to demonstrate not just sustainability features, but realistic, practical ways to take advantage of certain attributes [of the land],” says Brownwell.
South Texas Sustainability Through Solar
The land that Rancho Carrizo sits on is special to Brownwell for many reasons. One of its most unique features is that it’s on the outcropping of the Carrizo Aquifer, an important South Texas water source. The Carrizo Aquifer is 130 feet below the surface of his home. It not only provides their drinking water, but also fuels their highly efficient geothermal heating and cooling system.
Some other unique features include the use of xeriscaping, which relies on natural rock and boulders and water from the aquifer. Special features of their home include local stonework on their walls, windows showcasing panoramic views, and energy from the Texas sun through solar panels.
Brownwell is a pioneer in utilizing his land independence and bringing his family-owned property into the future. So, it makes sense why he chose Freedom Solar as his solar system installers. We provide Maxeon (previously SunPower) solar panels, which are the highest-rated panels on the market. They offer the highest yield, longest lifespan, and contain easily expandable solar technology.
Contact Freedom Solar for Maxeon (previously SunPower) Solar Panels
Solar panel company Freedom Solar also provides a competitive warranty with solar repair services. Freedom Solar’s solar panel service and maintenance department covered over the lifetime of your system. We aim to make going solar as easy as possible for anyone who is interested. Contact us today if you’re ready to join the solar revolution.
Call (800) 504-2337 or complete our inquiry form to begin your free consultation.