by Brianna Crandall — October 1, 2010—Kohl’s Department Stores recently announced that the company reached a new milestone in its solar program by activating the solar panels at its 100th solar location, in Mays Landing, New Jersey, earlier in September. Kohl’s also announced plans to expand its solar program into Pennsylvania. The company currently has solar panels at select stores and distribution centers in California, Wisconsin, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Oregon and Colorado.
Solar is an integral component of the company’s energy management efforts and commitment to be carbon neutral by the end of 2010. The company estimates that its energy management programs have helped prevent nearly $50 million in electricity costs. The company has 100 solar locations and commitments to build 73 Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified locations and 500 Energy Star stores.
Construction of solar arrays on the rooftops of seven Pennsylvania stores began in August and is expected to be completed by March 2011. The eight locations combined are expected to generate more than 2.3 megawatts of power annually. On average, the 1,400 panels per location will supply nearly half of each store’s energy, supply enough energy to power 36 homes annually, and prevent the emissions of more than 9 million pounds of carbon dioxide over 20 years.
Kohl’s commitment to renewable energy has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with Green Power Leadership awards for the last three years, including 2009 Green Power Partner of the Year and 2010 Energy Star Partner of the Year. The company also ranks first in retail, second overall, and second among Fortune 500 companies on EPA’s quarterly listings of top green power purchasers.
