To develop and install the new solar power system, the company contracted with American Capital Energy, a Massachusetts-based firm specializing in solar power project integration.
Construction of the Rocklin solar power project began in July 2007, with the power-generating panels expected to be in operation by the end of summer of 2007.
The Rocklin solar power system will utilize more than 7,000 Sharp 170 solar modules, two SatCon 500 kW inverters and the Unirac S-5 mounting system for a non-penetrating and low-profile installation.
When completed, the solar power system is expected to provide an average of approximately 1,500,000 kWh annually of clean energy production at this facility, which is the equivalent of powering 140 average US households for a year, and is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 19 metric tons annually.
Michael Funk, president and CEO, commented: This solar power system is yet another example of United Natural Foods’ commitment to environmentally responsible initiatives. Further, it is especially gratifying to work towards protecting the environment while at the same time improving our infrastructure to enhance efficiencies and lower costs. It’s truly a win-win situation where everyone benefits.
The Rocklin facility is the headquarters for United Natural Foods (UNF) Western Region; employs approximately 550 people; serves customers in northern California, northern Nevada, southern Oregon, and Hawaii; and is the largest facility in the company’s nationwide distribution network. UNF has the largest warehouse capacity of any distributor in the natural products industry and, with the recently announced plans to open a facility in Sarasota, Florida, it will have more than 3.7 million square feet of space at 16 distribution centers nationwide.
UNF has an ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible initiatives. As part of these efforts, in February 2007, the company announced its participation in the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Transport Partnership, a voluntary collaboration between the EPA and companies with truck fleets designed to increase energy efficiency while significantly reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution.
