Ikea switches on solar energy system at Brooklyn store

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, April 27, 2011

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Swedish home furnishings giant Ikea said the solar energy system atop its 346,000-square-foot store here is now operating and certified by utility company Con Edison and the city.

Some of the 1,104 solar panels on the roof of Ikea in Brooklyn.

The Top 100 company characterized the system as one of the largest rooftop installations in New York, occupying 19,000 square feet with 1,104 solar panels.

It will generate 240,000 kilowatts of renewable electricity annually for the store, "the equivalent of reducing 365,615 pounds of carbon dioxide, eliminating the emissions of 32 cars, or providing electricity for 20 homes yearly," according to the retailer.

Ikea said the system is part of its commitment to sustainable business practices and reducing its carbon footprint.

"We are very excited about enhancing the sustainable contribution Ikea Brooklyn continues to make in the local community by generating electricity through solar panels atop our store," said Mike Baker, store manager. "This initiative helps improve the environment and contributes to our vision of creating a better everyday life for the many."

Ikea's other sustainable initiatives include solar energy systems in Burbank, Calif., Pittsburgh and Tempe, Ariz., and installations underway at seven locations in California as well as stores in Paramus, N.J., and Stoughton, Mass.

Solar and geothermal systems were incorporated into the Denver-area store opening this year in Centennial, Colo. Other U.S. sustainability efforts include recycling programs and the use of energy-efficient heating, air conditioning and lighting systems and water-conserving restrooms.