News

Billings, Montana food truck uses solar energy to save costs

June 19, 2017

A food truck in Billings, Montana called Rudeboys is using solar panels to reduce energy costs and hopefully improve productivity, according to The Billings Gazette. The three panels are attached to the back and side of the truck, allowing the truck to tap into a secondary energy source.

Owner Matt Melvin said the Goal Zero solar panels and generator cost about $3,000, which he expects to make back this summer in energy cost savings. The solar panels power his point-of-sales system and the lights.

The refrigerator, stoves and oven are powered by propane. Melvin said he needs a reliable secondary power source to keep the food cold and comply with health regulations.

The solar panels allow Melvin to keep power on longer and sell more food during festivals and events.

Solar panel costs have fallen about 9 percent this year on average. The cost has been declining in recent years as installation and design have become more efficient, according to Energy Sage, an industry research group.

Melvin did not seek subsidies for his truck, which launched this spring. He invested around $70,000 to start the business, financed through Western Security Bank with a Small Business Administration loan.