Costco to tap into solar power in N.J.

Hazlet, N.J. Costco will outfit its store in Hazlet, N.J., with a 500-kilowatt air-conditioning system run by solar power.

The chain has selected Solar Power, Roseville, Calif, to design and install the system, which will utilize the company’s new Solyndra panels. In a departure from traditional silicon-based technology, the Solyndra panels feature cylindrical modules that capture sunlight across a 360-degree photovoltaic surface capable of converting direct, indirect, and reflected sunlight from the roof’s surface into electricity. The installation will be the single largest commercial PV solar system to date that incorporates Solyndra panels, according to the supplier.

The system at Costco will utilize 3,300 Solyndra panels and an advanced energy inverter.