Oct 27 2010
IKEA, a global leader in retail home furnishings, activated a solar energy system in its store in Tempe, Arizona. A number of community leaders, local officials and company representatives were present for the event. The solar energy system included two 300-kW systems with 1300 panels each, covering a 75,000 Square foot area.
This solar program is expected to generate around one million kWh electricity per year, which would actually be decreasing CO2 discharges by 760 tons, equivalent to powering 84 homes every year, and also equal to the emissions from 133 cars.
This project is IKEA’s third active solar energy project in the U.S., with the other projects functioning at Brooklyn and Pittsburgh. Future plans include installation at eight IKEA locations in California along with a geothermal system in Centennial. IKEA has teamed up with Gloria Solar, a Photovoltaic system business belonging to the E-Ton Solar Group for developing , designing and installing this tailored solar power system. The project, which is said to be the biggest installation in SRP’s service area, is to be conducted, as part of the SRP’s EarthWise Solar Energy program. SRP is the third biggest public power utility, providing more than 940,000 consumers in the Phoenix metro, via diverse resources such as biomass, solar, geothermal, wind and hydroelectricity.
Robby Wierman, the Store Manager at IKEA Tempe, stated that they were excited to enhance their sustainability commitment with the solar energy system. He also mentioned that IKEA was appreciative of the support offered by their partners in this venture, Gloria Solar and SRP, and the City of Tempe.
IKEA with respect for nature and a Swedish heritage tirelessly tries to be not only a good business, but also a business that has minimal negative impact on the environment. They are also incorporating innovative substances in their production processes; flat-packing their products for a competent distribution system; maintaining sustainable resources along with Global Forest Watch; recycling more than 75% of their waste; and also using environmentally friendly materials while constructing their buildings such as low volatile paints emitting organic compounds, restrooms that conserve water, skylights in warehouses, recycled construction materials and HVAC and other energy efficient lighting systems.
IKEA has around 300 stores in 38 countries, offering home furnishings of high quality and design, at cost-effective prices. Its Tempe store opened in November 2004, employing 250 personnel, displaying 10000 designer items, three model home interiors and 44 different room settings. It also includes a children’s play area with supervision, and a hugh Swedish restaurant along with baby care rooms and play areas all over the store. Preferred parking is also available.