JCPenney launches solar, wind power projects

PLANO, Texas JCPenney announced that it will supply electricity to 10 stores and on distribution center through the use of solar and wind power. According to the company, the effort is part of pilot projects to test new energy initiatives. In conjunction with these initiatives, JCPenney also announced plans to obtain ENERGY STAR certification for at least 200 stores.

JCPenney has engaged SunPower to install solar power systems on 10 JCPenney stores in California and New Jersey. According to the comoany,yhe 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 are expected to be complete in November.

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. After installation is completed in November, JCPenney will purchase electricity generated by the system from Broadstar.

"Hosting these solar and wind projects will add to our knowledge of the benefits and potential applications of renewable energy programs at our facilities," said Myron Ullman, III, chairman and ceo. "Together with the energy-saving initiatives we already have in place in our stores and distribution centers, this is another significant step toward achieving our environmental objectives. With enthusiastic support from JCPenney associates nationwide, we are constantly looking for opportunities to contribute to a cleaner environment and run our business more cost effectively."