The Madonna Inn has always stood out—from its bold pink décor to its whimsical rock architecture. Now, it’s making headlines again, this time for going solar.
In December 2024, the Central Coast landmark partnered with A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing to install a state-of-the-art solar system on its 2,000-acre property.
The ground-mounted system, tucked discreetly behind the Alex Madonna Expo Center, includes 2,194 high-efficiency 530-watt panels.
The array is designed to offset 100% of the resort’s electricity usage within a three-year payback period, generating an expected $30.7 million in utility savings over its lifespan.
However, the decision to go solar was about more than saving money. It’s also a tribute to heritage, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
A Powerful Investment in Sustainability
The Madonna Inn is an iconic Central Coast landmark, but it’s also a family-run business now in its second generation of leadership. Connie Pearce—daughter of founders Alex and Phyllis Madonna—is the general manager, and her husband, Clint, oversees the company’s real estate operations, Madonna Enterprises LLC.
“The Madonna Inn is going to be 70 years old in two years,” Clint said. “We feel a heavy weight of living up to the legacy of the past, honoring the beautiful property and brand and legacy that Alex and Phyllis founded and ran for so many years.
“And we always feel like we need to keep it original as much as possible and as fresh and as new as possible. We installed a solar system to be more cost efficient and to lessen our carbon footprint.”
From a sustainability perspective, the solar installation at Madonna Inn will offset 2,082,973 lbs of carbon dioxide over its lifetime. That’s equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from 220 gas-powered vehicles driven for one year.
The Pearces’ decision to go solar also positions the inn favorably within the growing ecotourism market.
“There are a lot of folks who travel, especially in California, where they’re looking for more of a green option or energy efficient, carbon neutral option. They seek out properties and communities that are really focused on sustainability,” Clint said. “San Luis Obispo has really made its name nationally, maybe even globally, as far as being a real leader in ecotourism. And we feel like this is our contribution to really help out with that.”
Custom Solutions that Preserve Central Coast Charm
While the Pearces wanted to modernize the inn with solar, preserving its distinct character was a top priority. With more than a dozen uniquely styled buildings, each one an homage to a bygone era, they knew rooftop panels weren’t the answer.
The A.M. Sun team worked with the Pearces to design and install a system that would meet all of the Madonna Inn’s unique needs. The project required a highly customized approach due to the property’s age, architectural uniqueness, and complex electrical setup.
Built in 1958, the Madonna Inn consists of multiple historic buildings that are not energy efficient and couldn’t accommodate rooftop panels without compromising their distinctive aesthetic.
The install team designed a ground-mounted system to protect the iconic look of the property. They also navigated the challenge of integrating power across approximately 10 separate electrical meters into one cohesive solution.
“When you look at trying to do solar with the Madonna Inn, it’s kind of a complex beast,” Clint said. “We chose A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing because they were very responsive. After years of asking multiple solar companies to help us with this solution, A.M. Sun actually did it, and they did it in a very professional, very cost-efficient way.”
Strategic Timing to Maximize Tax Incentives
Time was also of the essence for this project. To take advantage of year-end tax incentives, the Pearces needed the system installed before 2025. A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing delivered—on time and on budget.
Now fully operational, the Madonna Inn’s solar system is a shining example of what’s possible when Central Coast hospitality meets forward-thinking technology.
“I wholeheartedly recommend A.M. Sun to anyone interested in going solar,” Clint said. “They did a wonderful job. They do everything from single-family homes to apartments to large commercial projects like this, and I would recommend them for all of the above—to a homeowner or to a business owner. They have done an exceptional job.”
If you’re ready to start saving, A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing is here to help! As a trusted solar provider in San Luis Obispo County, we offer customized solar solutions to fit your home and business energy needs.
Why Choose A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing?
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we pride ourselves on providing expert solar and roofing installations and top-tier service at the best pricing in SLO County. We’re committed to delivering the highest-quality service while keeping your budget in mind.
Contact A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing today to get a free solar estimate. Serving San Luis Obispo County and the surrounding areas, we are here to help you protect your home or business year-round.
Connect with us today at hello@amsunsolar.com, (805) 772-6786, or fill out the form below to get a FREE ESTIMATE with one of our friendly solar & roofing experts.
