Plano-based JCPenney launches solar and wind power projects

by PegNews wire

ENERGY STAR® certification is planned for 200 stores.

PLANO — J.C. Penney Company today announced plans for solar and wind power projects that will supply electricity to 10 stores and one distribution center. In conjunction with these initiatives, JCPenney also announced plans to obtain ENERGY STAR certification for at least 200 stores.

“Hosting these solar and wind projects will add to our knowledge of the benefits and potential applications of renewable energy programs at our facilities,” said Myron E. (Mike) Ullman, III, chairman and chief executive officer. “Together with the energy-saving initiatives we already have in place in our stores and distribution centers, this is another significant step toward achieving our environmental objectives. With enthusiastic support from JCPenney Associates nationwide, we are constantly looking for opportunities to contribute to a cleaner environment and run our business more cost effectively.”

JCPenney has engaged SunPower Corporation to install solar power systems on 10 JCPenney stores in California and New Jersey. Producing more than 4 megawatts of clean electric power, the systems will help avoid emissions of approximately 146,000 tons of carbon dioxide over their 30-year expected lifetime, which is equal to the annual greenhouse gas emissions generated by more than 800 cars.

JCPenney has also reached an agreement with Broadstar Wind Systems on a pilot program to install wind turbines at JCPenney’s 1.6 million-square-foot distribution center in Reno, Nev. The program will utilize Broadstar’s building-mounted AeroCam wind turbines, which capture energy and generate power more efficiently than conventional three-blade turbines. After installation is completed in November, JCPenney will purchase electricity generated by the system from Broadstar.

In addition to pursuing renewable power sources, JCPenney continues to utilize the tools provided by the U.S. government’s ENERGY STAR program to increase energy efficiency in its stores. In 2007, four JCPenney stores became the first in the industry to qualify for ENERGY STAR certification under a new rating system designed for non-grocery retail stores. The Company has set a goal to achieve ENERGY STAR certification of at least 200 stores across the country by 2011. To be certified, stores must achieve an energy efficiency rating in the top quartile for all retail stores while maintaining appropriate levels of comfort and air quality.

Source: JCPenney