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Marlborough, MA, Dec. 12, 2005 -- BJ's Wholesale Club in Saratoga, NY is using energy from the sun to help power its store thanks to a solar energy system on its rooftop. The system, using solar panels manufactured by Evergreen Solar Inc., is BJ's largest North American solar installation.
The technology was unveiled to the public at a recent store event, where guests toured the system to learn how it uses the sun's power to save energy and help protect the environment.
The 80,000 square-foot 100-kilowatt system, consisting of 912 photovoltaic (PV) panels covering nearly the entire roof of the building, has been running smoothly since starting operations last spring. Operating year-round, it should produce over 100,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, enough to power 13 average homes. The installation is also expected to offset the release of more than 100,000 pounds of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere each year. A permanent in-store display allows shoppers to view information about the solar power system.
BJ's Wholesale Club has embarked on a chain-wide program to purchase energy from clean resources. Working with the Sun Power Electric division of Conservation Services Group, which installed the Saratoga system, BJ's now has rooftop solar power plants operating on several stores throughout the Northeast. The company donates its roof space to Sun Power Electric, owner and installer of the power systems. BJ's also signs a long-term agreement to purchase the power, providing the stable income that allows project partners to obtain financing.
"While the residential market for solar power systems has been booming for years, we're seeing a sharp increase in commercial use," said Dr. Terry Bailey, Evergreen senior VP. "Large-scale applications on commercial buildings further validate solar power as a viable energy solution in the U.S. and around the globe."
"Member response has been enthusiastic and the system is operating smoothly," said Terry Civic, BJ's manager of energy.
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