Blue Diamond Growers is the recipient of the California Energy Commission Food Production Investment Program grant, which will allow the Sacramento, Calif., headquarters facility to install a new boiler system and save 1,350 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) per year, equivalent to the amount of carbon sequestered by 21,000 trees for 10 years. Additionally, it will save up to 250,000 Therms per year, equivalent to 149,000 gallons of gasoline consumed and 47,000 kWh per year, equivalent to 169 million smartphones charged. 

The funds will modernize the steam boiler system, which is used to generate steam for plant production and sanitation, and will cover more than half of the upgraded equipment costs.  

“As a grower-owned marketing and processing cooperative, these types of grant programs are essential to ensuring we can keep pace with our sustainability initiatives while maximizing the returns to over 3,000 family growers in California,” says Brian Barczak, senior vice president, global supply.