LIHU‘E — With energy prices continuing to rise on Kaua‘i, businesses are committing to reduce their energy footprint in various ways. In unveiling the completion of new solar panels on its rooftop, Walmart in Lihu‘e becomes the third Walmart property
LIHU‘E — With energy prices continuing to rise on Kaua‘i, businesses are committing to reduce their energy footprint in various ways.
In unveiling the completion of new solar panels on its rooftop, Walmart in Lihu‘e becomes the third Walmart property in the state of Hawai‘i to rely on solar for power, according to a company press release Monday.
“We applaud Walmart’s commitment to solar energy and hope it will encourage other Kaua‘i businesses to help attain our island’s Holo Holo 2020 vision,” Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. said in the press release.
“All of us look forward to creating an island that is sustainable, values the native culture, has a thriving and healthy economy, cares for all — keiki to kupuna — and has a responsible and user friendly local government.”
According to Walmart, the 315 kilowatt DC solar power system from SunEdison will provide more than 400,000 kilowatt hours of solar electricity annually. The zero-emission system will help the store avoid more than 2,600 metric tons of C02 over the next decade. Walmart officials said this is akin to removing 500 cars from the island.
“We are committed to making decisions that are not only good for business and the environment, but also allow us to pass on savings to our customers,” Walmart Hawai‘i market manager Brian Halsey said in the release.
“We’re pleased with the progress of our solar program in Hawai‘i and excited about this important step on Kaua‘i towards our goal of being supplied 100 percent by renewable energy.”
The Walmart Corporation is committed to being 100 percent powered by renewable energy sources, according to the release. More stores are expected to receive solar panels in the future.
