Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Walmart Uses Solar Panels to Cut Expenses



Energy conservation is still a hot topic and an important part of developing stronger, more efficient, and a more innovative economy that reduces potential solutions. Walmart has become more innovative by using solar panels on top parking spaces to provide better use of surfaces. Their goal is to have 100% renewable energy sources that cut back on other bills and problems. 

At the end of 2013 the company had 335 renewable energy projects. They save the environment 2.2 kWh of energy globally that doesn’t need to come from oil, gas, coal, or other non-renewable sources. The projects are completed on a large enough scale that it is more cost effective than others. You may read more about their efforts at their site

Walmart is at the forefront of encouraging sustainable energy development. Something likely reaching way back into the family’s farmer and conservation past. You will notice this as you drive or walk into the parking lot and see the carports that protect your automobile from the blistering sun. Kind of nice to get into your car without a wall of heat while still helping society curb global warming. 

The technology that goes into reusable energy has grown over the past few decades. Becoming stronger, bigger, and more cost effective for large companies like Walmart. It is believed that if solar and wind energy were harnessed appropriately it would supply enough energy for the entire world (Quanhua, et. al. 2009). This alone can be one reason to keep developing and implement technology.

It is refreshing to see companies like Walmart make efforts to curb global warming while reducing their costs on maintaining energy. They have a goal to someday be 100% renewable in energy. It may be a lofty goal but if there is one thing that Walmart is good at is finding efficiencies in economies of scale. It won’t be long other companies start following their path.

Quanehue, L., et. al. (2009). Solar and wind energy resources and prediction. Journal of Renewable & Sustainable Energy, 1 (4).

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