Costco Goes Green with Mitsubishi Electric Solar Array
REC Solar completes Hawaii’s
two largest solar installations
San
Luis Obispo, Calif., February 4, 2008 — Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics
USA and REC Solar have announced the completion of Hawaii’s two largest solar
installations for the Costco Wholesale locations in Kauai and Kona. The two
systems, which are 650 kilowatts (DC) each, hold the distinction of being the
biggest solar arrays in the state of Hawaii to date. Collectively, these systems
will generate enough electricity to power 250 homes.
Inspired by generous government rebates
and tax incentives other businesses in Hawaii have followed Costco’s lead and
are now installing solar electric systems as well. Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle
recently pledged her commitment to the solar industry by announcing plans to
install large scale solar electric systems on a number of government buildings.
“The booming solar industry has resulted
in an unprecedented surge of job growth in Hawaii. The state’s strategic solar
incentive program is providing Hawaii with a unique opportunity to expand their
economy beyond agriculture and tourism,” said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO and
President of REC Solar.
“The generous incentives offered by the
Federal government and the state of Hawaii covered almost 65% of the system’s
total cost. Costco is keenly aware of the environmental issues facing our world
and since the financials make sense it was obvious that investing in solar was
the right thing to do for both Costco and the community,” said Craig Peal,
Assistant Vice President of Energy and Building Systems at Costco.
The completion of these installations
marks the beginning of REC Solar’s large scale commercial projects for Costco.
Last year REC Solar announced their agreement to install solar electric systems
at a number of Costco locations in Hawaii and California. REC Solar has also
recently completed solar electric systems at the Costco locations in Goleta and
San Luis Obispo, California.
According to
Mitsubishi Electric solar panels were
used in all four installations because of their performance and reliability.
“These solar electric systems will result in huge savings for Costco and we are
honored to partner with two such innovative and respected companies,” added
Gina Heng, Director of Sales & Marketing for Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA’s Photovoltaic Division.
About REC Solar, Inc.
REC Solar,
Inc. is an industry-leading solar power provider specializing in grid-tied
residential and commercial installations. With a local presence in all major
solar markets in the USA and with millions of watts installed, REC Solar is
committed to lowering the cost of solar power through efficient processes,
innovative products, and outstanding customer service. REC Solar is among the
nation’s largest solar integrators and currently has 12 offices in 5 states
(CA, CO, HI, OR and NJ). REC Solar is continuing its rapid expansion into other
states and has the capability to implement solar installations in every
location as incentives become available. For additional information on REC
Solar visit www.recsolar.com or call
1-888-OK-SOLAR (888-657-6527).
About Mitsubishi
Electric & Electronics USA’s Photovoltaic Division
Mitsubishi Electric is one of the world’s largest
manufacturers and providers of solar power technology, including PV cells,
modules and inverters. The company’s eco-friendly photovoltaic systems are used
throughout the world to bring clean, reliable energy to residences, business,
power generation plants, schools, factories and areas without access to
electricity, as well as other applications such as highway and stadium
lighting. In the United States, Mitsubishi Electric photovoltaic panels are
marketed by Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA, Inc., and sold only
through authorized distributors and installers. For more information visit www.mitsubishielectricsolar.com
or call 714.220.2500.