Target ranks number one in survey of companies using solar energy
Corporations are investing in solar energy in record amounts, according to a new report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
SEIA’s Solar Means Business 2017 report, which tracks on-site commercial solar installations, includes
data from over 4,000 companies, totaling more than 2.5 gigawatts of solar capacity across approximately 7,400 solar projects.
“To leading companies across America, deploying solar is a common-sense business decision,” Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of SEIA, said. “Large corporations have found that going solar not only benefits the environment but also their bottom-line, satisfying both shareholders and customers alike.”
Target earned the top spot for the second straight year, adding 40 megawatts (MW) of solar in 2017. The retailer now has 204 MW of installed solar capacity in the United States.
“At Target, we’re designing for tomorrow and putting solutions in place across our business to leave our homes better for future families,” John Leisen, vice president, property management at Target, said. “And we’re proud of the progress our team has made over the past year towards Target’s goal to install rooftop solar panels on 500 buildings by 2020. As we continue our commitment to supporting our local communities, it’s an incredible honor to be recognized by SEIA for the second year in a row.”
Other companies in the top 10 include Walmart, Prologis, Apple, Kohl’s, Costco Wholesale, GGP, IKEA, Macy’s, and Amazon.
“Solar is a vital component of Walmart’s expanding renewable energy portfolio,” Mark Vanderhelm, vice president of energy for Walmart, said. “As one of the leading U.S. companies for solar energy installations and capacity, Walmart plans to continue our efforts on seeking to find renewable energy projects that are right for our customers, our business and the environment. It is an honor to be recognized by SEIA for our work in the renewable energy space as it serves as a confirmation that we are continuing to move in the right direction with our solar energy achievements and aspirations.”
The report notes that Apple’s solar facilities produce enough electricity annually to fully charge more than 44 million iPhone’s every day for an entire year.
Matt Singleton, senior vice president, global energy at Prologis, said sustainability is a core component of their long-term business strategy. The company has 175 MW of solar generating capacity in its global property portfolio with the goal of reaching 200 MW by 2020.
“It is a tremendous honor to once again be recognized by SEIA for our continued efforts to expand solar energy capacity across our portfolio,” Shobi Khan, president and chief operating officer of GGP, said. “Our investment in solar generation not only creates value for our shareholders, it reflects our long-term commitment to reduce GGP’s carbon footprint within our communities. Most importantly, it is the right thing to do.”
