NRDC to add solar panels to three New Jersey shopping centers

Purchase, N.Y. National Realty & Development Corp. said Tuesday it plans to add solar panels to the roofs of three New Jersey shopping centers, a significant step toward reducing energy consumption and lower operating costs for their tenants, the shopping center owner and developer said.

NRDC has entered into a purchase agreement with Solaire Energy Systems, a San Diego, Calif.-based developer of clean energy.

Walmart Plaza in Clinton, N.J., Kohl’s Plaza in Holmdel, N.J., and CooperTowne Center in Somerdale, N.J., will receive these new upgrades the first part of 2011.

“National Realty & Development strives to be at the forefront with its sustainable building practices and is excited about our plans to use this renewable energy,” said John Orrico, president of NRDC. “The addition of solar energy will prove to be beneficial to our tenants and the community in which these shopping centers operate. Tenants will see a reduction in utility costs and a beneficial impact on the environment.”