CANTON, Mich. — IKEA announced that it has plugged-in the solar energy system installed at its Detroit-area store in Canton, Mich. — what the company says is the state’s largest such solar photovoltaic (PV) array. The 122,200-square-foot array is a 977.6 kW system, built with 4,160 panels. IKEA Canton is expected to produce approximately 1,114,943 kWh of clean electricity annually.

IKEA said the Canton installation represents the 20th completed solar energy project for the company in the United States, with 19 more locations underway, making the eventual U.S. solar presence of IKEA nearly 89 percent with a total generation of 38 MW.

For the development, design, and installation of the Canton store’s customized solar power system, IKEA contracted with SoCore Energy, one of the largest commercial solar developers in the Midwest and developer of more than 65 U.S. commercial installations.

“We are thrilled at how this solar energy system furthers our commitment to sustainability at IKEA Canton,” said Anton van Dongen, store manager. “IKEA has a never-ending job where most things remain to be done that encourages us always to ask ourselves how we can improve what we do today for a better tomorrow. We appreciate the support of Canton Township, Detroit Edison, and SoCore Energy, our partners in this project.”

IKEA’s U.S. sustainability efforts include recycling waste material and incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms.

Located on 21 acres, the 311,000-square-foot IKEA Canton opened in June 2006. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, the store presents 52 different room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 350-seat restaurant.

For more information, go to ikea-usa.com.

Publication date: 7/30/2012