South Branch Inn has been a cherished part of Moorefield, West Virginia, for years, providing comfort, connection, and community to everyone who walks through its doors. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to local traditions, the inn is now leading the way in sustainability with a transformative solar energy project. With support from Partner Community Capital (PCAP) and a USDA REAP grant, the inn is reducing its environmental impact while securing its future as a community cornerstone. 

“This project is a game-changer for us,” said Samuel Williams, co-owner of South Branch Inn. “We’ve always believed in investing in our community, and this solar initiative is part of that commitment. Partner Community Capital not only helped us secure the funding but stood beside us every step of the way.” 

The $1.7 million project, funded in part by a USDA REAP grant of $872,056, brings a state-of-the-art solar energy system to the inn. With solar panels on rooftops and on the ground, along with an advanced energy storage system, the project will generate enough energy to cover more than 93% of the inn’s electricity needs—saving approximately $34,000 annually. 

Elizabeth Wilkes, Energy Program Manager for PCAP, saw this as more than just a sustainability effort. “At its core, this is about people,” Wilkes explained. “The staff, the guests, the community—everyone benefits when a local business like South Branch Inn can reduce its costs and its environmental impact. It’s not just about the technology; it’s about creating a brighter future for the people who call this area home.” 

For Williams and his team, the impact goes beyond the numbers. “This isn’t just about lowering our bills,” Williams said.  

“It’s about creating opportunities. Every dollar we save on energy can go back into making the inn better for our guests and our employees. It allows us to grow in ways we couldn’t have imagined before,” said Kelly Williams, co-owner of South Branch Inn. 

The collaboration between South Branch Inn and PCAP highlights what can happen when vision meets support. “PCAP didn’t just help us get funding—they became a true partner,” Williams said. “They understood our goals and helped us navigate the challenges of a project this size. Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible,” she added. 

For PCAP, this project reflects their mission to make the impossible possible. “Businesses like South Branch Inn are the backbone of rural communities,” Wilkes said. “By empowering them to take bold steps like this, we’re not just helping one business—we’re inspiring others to follow suit.” 

The solar energy system is already setting an example for the region, showing how sustainability can work for small businesses. For the people of Moorefield, it’s a source of pride. For South Branch Inn, it’s a step into a future where hospitality and innovation go hand in hand. 

“This project is about more than just solar panels,” Samuel Williams said. “It’s about the people who make this community special and ensuring we’re here to serve them for years to come.”