Sunday, August 24, 2008

Plano-based JCPenney installs solar power systems on 10 stores in California and New Jersey

By Pegasus News wire

Demonstrating its commitment to adopting renewable power sources that deliver both environmental and business benefits, J. C. Penney announced plans for solar and wind power projects that will supply electricity to 10 stores and one distribution center. The pilot projects represent the next step for JCPenney in its efforts to leverage new technologies and engage its 155,000 Associates in innovative energy programs. In conjunction with these initiatives, JCPenney also announced plans to obtain ENERGY STAR certification for at least 200 stores.

JCPenney has engaged SunPower Corporation to install solar power systems on 10 JCPenney stores in California and New Jersey. Producing more than 4 megawatts of clean electric power, the systems will help avoid emissions of approximately 146,000 tons of carbon dioxide over their 30-year expected lifetime, which is equal to the annual greenhouse gas emissions generated by more than 800 cars.

The solar systems will be financed, owned, and operated by a third-party financier, from which JCPenney will purchase the solar-generated electricity under a SunPower Access power purchase agreement. The rooftop installations, expected to be complete in November, will provide immediate savings through lower-than-utility solar energy costs and a long-term energy hedge for nearly 25 percent of the energy used at the stores. The 10 pilot stores will also benefit from the installation of new energy-efficient lighting and advanced energy management systems that will help reduce their energy consumption.

California stores scheduled to receive solar systems are located in El Cajon, Palmdale, Redlands and Santa Clarita, and the New Jersey store locations are in Cherry Hill, Deptford, East Brunswick, Freehold, Wayne and Woodbridge.

JCPenney has also reached an agreement with Broadstar Wind Systems on a pilot program to install wind turbines at JCPenney's 1.6 million-square-foot distribution center in Reno, Nev. The program will utilize Broadstar's innovative, building-mounted AeroCam wind turbines, which capture energy and generate power more efficiently than conventional three-blade turbines. After installation is completed in November, JCPenney will purchase electricity generated by the system from Broadstar.

"These projects further our commitment to incorporate sustainability into all aspects of our operations. We will closely monitor the results to determine how we can best leverage these innovative methods to increase our participation in renewable energy projects while also benefiting our business," said Jim Thomas, vice president and director of corporate social responsibility for JCPenney. "We are proud of what we are accomplishing as an organization to reduce energy consumption and extend JCPenney's legacy of social responsibility, and our Associates remain focused on seeking new ways to protect the environment."

Posted by T.G.

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