US-headquartered high-efficiency PV module producer SunPower has started construction on what is claimed to be the largest behind-the-meter solar power system in Texas upon completion.
The 8.79MW solar system is based at Toyota Motor’s North American headquarters in Plan, Texas, which the auto manufacturer plans to occupy this year.
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Around 50 construction workers from local solar contractor Axium Solar are now installing SunPower's 20% efficient E-Series solar panels on steel carport structures across the top of four garages. SunPower is the only solar panel manufacturer in the world to achieve this certification. When complete, there will be more than 20,000 panels installed, which will generate enough clean energy to offset around 33% of Toyota’s needs.
“We are excited to see this solar power project start to really take shape on our new headquarters campus,” said Kevin Butt, regional director of Toyota’s North American Environmental Division. “As a long-standing solar advisor, SunPower is helping us realize Toyota's 2050 global environmental challenge to eliminate carbon emissions in all operations.”
“We're proud to partner with Toyota on this innovative solar project as the company works to achieve its ambitious sustainability goals,” said Nam Nguyen, SunPower senior vice president. “The unique long-span carport design will feature SunPower's high reliability solar panels that deliver 30% more electricity than conventional solar, optimizing Toyota's renewable energy investment.”