Walmart has been aiming at using renewable energy as its source of power and the San Diego-located College Avenue store has been revealed as the 100th California Walmart Store using rooftop solar power for power generation. This investment of Walmart in solar power results in 48 contract positions at an average per site.
Walmart, in collaboration with California-based SolarCity, has generated over 3000 contract construction jobs in California. Also, SolarCity hired 1,213 employees from the time it announced its first Walmart projects in September 2010. California-based company, San Mateo will manage, install and maintain 70 of the new 100 solar power systems.
The complete integrated solar efforts in California will generate up to 70 MkWh of renewable, clean energy each year which is equal to powering over 5400 homes. More that 21,700 mt of carbon dioxide emissions will be prevented each year, which is equal to removing 4,100 cars from the road.
Presently there are 100 Sam’s Clubs and Walmart stores in California that use thin film and traditional solar installations. Walmart launched its solar pilot program in May 2007 and then reinforced its commitment to renewable energy in California State in 2011 when it decided to expand its solar product line to over 75% of its California-based stores, which are around 130, by 2013 end.
San Diego City Council President stated that the recent renewable energy effort is an additional step forward in the clean energy mission of San Diego and will make the city a more sustainable, better place for present residents and the next generation.
Source: http://www.walmart.com