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Staples activates 1.1MW solar array in Southern California

Staples now has 32 solar arrays powering its stores, including this one at Hanover, MD

Office products company Staples, Inc., has had its latest solar energy system activated – a 1.1 megawatt array in La Mirada, Southern California.

The new facility is the retail chain’s 32nd solar system provided by Maryland-based solar energy services firm SunEdison.

It covers 300,000 square feet of roofspace at the Staples fulfillment center in southeast Los Angeles County.

SunEdison financed and constructed the facility, which it now owns and operates, selling power back to the office products retailer.

Expectations are that the system will produce nearly two million kilowatt-hours of energy each year, which should have environmental benefits over the next 20 years equivalent to taking 3,200 cars off the road.

Jaime A. Smith, vice president of North American sales for SunEdison, said: “Our activation with Staples is just the latest example of SunEdison’s demonstrated track record, strong financing capabilities and solid partnerships to provide turnkey solar solutions with immediate energy savings.”

Solar Staples

Staples began its solar power program back in 2005, and now has facilities in California, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland.

These include a 1MW array at its fulfillment center in Hanover, MD, and a 1.5 MW installation at its distribution center in Hagerstown, MD.

The retailer ranks number five on the EPA Green Power Partnership’s Top 20 Retail list, representing the largest annual green power usage.

Mark Buckley, vice president of environmental affairs for Staples., said: “The solar installation in La Mirada marks Staples ongoing commitment to environmental leadership.”

“Through our relationship with solar services provider SunEdison, we are able to purchase energy from our rooftop at a rate below or equal to the cost of electricity from the grid. This reduces our operating costs while freeing up more electricity during peak times for use by local homes and businesses.”