Walmart: A Solar Leader in California

Walmart sustainability has its day in the sun

Mega-retailer Walmart has faced many issues over recent years, including claims that it unfairly paid its workers and didn’t provide decent health care benefits.  Yet, the retail giant is generating positive news lately, as well as its own electricity!

Can you believe that Walmart is a solar leader in California?

In 2009, Walmart completed three solar power projects, installing solar panels at various locations in California: Paramount (14501 Lakewood Blvd), Baldwin Park (3250 Big Dalton Ave.) and Highland (4210 East Highland Ave).

Looking forward to 2010, the corporation’s solar power initiative aims to double its generation of solar electricity, adding solar rooftop installations at 10-20 California locations.  The chair of the California Air Resources Board, Mary Nichols stated:

“Walmart’s effort to expand and accelerate its solar power initiative program here in California demonstrates their commitment to sustainability. These kinds of projects create green jobs, reduce costs for businesses by lowering power bills, and protect the environment.  We appreciate Walmart’s leadership and encourage other businesses to follow Walmart’s lead.”

That’s not the only Walmart sustainability news these days, either:

Solar rooftops coming to Walmart locations in California

Love Walmart, or hate it, its expanded solar initiative in California will have a big impact overall.  The following estimates have been provided:

• 32 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy per year will be generated– equivalent of powering more than 2,600 homes
• 10,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year will be saved – equivalent to taking about 2,000 cars off the road
• 20 to 30% of each facility’s total electric energy needs will be generated by Walmart’s solar rooftops in California.

Walmart is continuing to take steps towards more sustainable operations.  Eventually, its goal is to be 100% powered by renewable energy.  According to its VP and regional general manager, Kimberly Sentovich:

“Increasing the use of solar energy is a benefit for the environment and makes business sense, as well.”

Walmart’s sustainability commitment includes creating zero waste and selling products that sustain people and resources.  The corporation will achieve these goals by using sustainable sourcing practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, renewable energy and lifecycle management.

Who knew that Walmart could be a solar leader and sustainable company?  Years from now, the company’s reputation could be cited as a shining example for renewable energy and green jobs.

Could your corporation use a renewable “face lift?”  Perhaps its time to take a page from Walmart’s play book!

Tags: solar energy use, solar initiative, solar leader, solar power initiative, solar power projects, solar rooftop california, walmart, walmart solar, walmart sustainability