Ikea plans to install 2,850 solar panels on the roof of its new store opening in Merriam this fall, an array capable of generating enough electricity to power 128 homes annually.
The 92,000 square-foot rooftop array was described Wednesday as the largest in Kansas. Installation will begin as soon as the roof of the new store is completed, probably in late June.
Officials at the Swedish retailer said the solar panels will generate 1.35 million kilowatt hours of energy and reduce the store’s potential carbon dioxide emissions by 930 tons annually.
Ikea already has installed a geo-thermal component to its heating and cooling system for the 359,000 square-foot store under construction at Johnson Drive and Interstate 35.
“We are excited about furthering our sustainability commitment with solar panels on the future Merriam store,” Rob Parsons, the new store manager, said in a statement.
“As is the case with geothermal, solar energy will reduce greatly the store’s energy needs and carbon footprint as well as contribute to our vision of creating a better everyday life for many.”
Ikea contracted with SoCore Energy of Chicago to design and install its solar roof, which will begin installation next month. SoCore was described as one of the largest solar developers in the Midwest.
The firm has installed solar energy systems at 90 percent of its U.S. locations.
Ikea plans largest solar array in Kansas
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