Ikea powers up second largest single-roof commercial energy system in California

Tejon, Calif. -- Ikea on Wednesday flipped the switch on a newly constructed solar energy system at its southwestern U.S. distribution center in Tejon, Calif. The 370,000-sq.-ft. solar array consists of a 1.8 MW system designed and installed by California-based REC Solar, and built with 7,980 REC Group panels.



The system will produce 2.88 million kWh of electric power annually, the equivalent of reducing 1,986 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 389 cars, or powering 241 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents. The project contributes to the local utility’s renewable portfolio goals and lowers the carbon intensity of the electrical grid.



Ikea contracted with California-based REC Solar, one of the largest U.S. solar electric providers with more than 6,000 systems built nationwide including 16MW in the commercial retail sector in the past two years. This installation represents the second-largest, single-roof commercial system in the state, and the sixth largest in the nation. REC Solar specializes in grid-tied solar electric design and installation, and offers the latest technology, state of the art equipment and financing opportunities for all commercial and residential customers.



“This solar photovoltaic system will reduce significantly the carbon footprint and electricity costs of this facility and will continue the global and U.S. initiative of Ikea to incorporate sustainable practices wherever feasible,” said Martin Grieder, Ikea distribution operations manager for Western North America. “We appreciate the support of REC Solar, Kern County and PG&E, our partners in this project.”



In the United States, Ikea already has solar energy systems operational in four stores with systems currently being installed at nine other locations, including a Denver-area store also opening this year in Centennial, Col,. with a geothermal system.