Wal-Mart Expands Solar-Power Projects
Between 10 and 20 Wal-Mart Stores in California will soon be outfitted with solar-power systems as a result of a deal struck with San Francisco–based energy supplier BP Solar.
Under the proposal, BP will finance, install and maintain the solar-power systems and Wal-Mart will purchase all the energy produced. BP will operate and maintain the rooftop systems, which provide up to 10 megawatts of power.
BP executives said they will initially focus on building 10 to 20 rooftop systems at Wal-Mart locations in California and then evaluate the potential for additional projects. The California stores should be outfitted with systems within 18 months.
“Our goal is to show how using affordable solar power benefits the environment and makes good business sense,” said Kim Saylors-Laster, vice president of energy at Wal-Mart.
In 2008, BP Solar completed construction on 4.1 megawatts of solar-energy systems for seven Wal-Mart stores and Sam’s Clubs in California.
BP guarantees its modules for 25 years.
BP Solar is a division of BP Alternative Energy. The global company has 2,000 employees who design, manufacture and market solar products. BP is one of the world’s largest energy companies, with interests in more than 100 countries and a staff of more than 96,000 employees. —Robert McAllister
