Greentech Lead America: IKEA, a global home furnishings
retailer, has set up 1,063-kW solar system at its store in Paramus, New Jersey.
This is the 17th completed solar energy project for IKEA in the United States.
The 132,000-square-foot PV array has capacity to generate
approximately 1,359,100 kWh of clean electricity annually, the equivalent of
reducing 1,033 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 184
cars or powering 117 homes yearly.
This investment by IKEA reinforces the company’s
long-term commitment to sustainability and confidence in photovoltaic
technology. IKEA owns and operates each of its solar PV energy systems atop its
buildings as opposed to a solar lease or PPA.
IKEA has entered into an agreement with REC Solar, an
U.S. solar electric installer for the development, design and installation of
the Paramus store’s customized solar power system. This installation makes the
eventual U.S. solar presence of IKEA nearly 85 percent and a total generation
of 30.8 MW.
“The installation of solar panels at IKEA Paramus is
another way we can build upon our ongoing commitment to sustainability. At
IKEA, we believe in being a good business while doing good business and
investing in renewable energy accomplishes both of those goals. We appreciate
the support from Paramus officials, PSE&G, and REC Solar, our partners in
this project,” said Lars Otteson, store manager.
Recently, IKEA in partnership with ECOtality set ups four Blink Pedestal electric vehicle
charging stations at its Tempe, Arizona store.