PHOENIX, AZ (November 16, 2011 - MarketWire)—US Foods activated a 905 kilowatt, 3,934 photovoltaic solar panel system at its Phoenix division distribution center. The solar array is the company's third installation, including a panel in San Francisco and La Mirada, and one of the largest rooftop installations in Phoenix. It is expected to provide 15 percent of the division's power needs annually.
At its peak, the solar panel array will generate more than 1.5 million kilowatt hours annually, enough energy to power approximately 140 homes. The US Foods distribution center in Phoenix, a Certified Green Business facility, marked the event by hosting a celebration for local dignitaries, customers, employees and suppliers.
"US Foods is committed to reducing its environmental impact and taking steps to safeguard the environment," said Tom Kertis, Phoenix division president, US Foods. "Our new solar panel system will help us meet our goal of conserving resources while continuing to meet our customers' needs."
US Foods is leasing the solar system from Del Solar, a global provider of renewable energy solutions. Other sustainable actions taken at the Phoenix Division include installing energy-efficient lighting and implementing recycling, water and fuel reduction programs.
With nearly 600 employees, the Phoenix Division supplies food and related products to more than 4,000 customers throughout Arizona.
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