Solar Array Construction Announced for IKEA’s Future Store in Ohio

COLOMBUS, Ohio — Leiden, Netherlands-based IKEA recently announced plans to install solar panels on top of its Columbus store, which is expected to open in summer 2017. This will be the second IKEA solar array installed in Ohio.

The Columbus store’s 213,000-square-foot solar array will consist of a 1.21 MW system, built with 3,546 panels, and will produce approximately 1,447,700 kWh of electricity annually for the store. That’s the equivalent of reducing 1,017 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by the emissions of 215 cars over the course of one year, according to a statement from IKEA.

“At IKEA, we have a mission to create a better everyday life for the many, and IKEA Columbus can add to this goal while also making us the largest non-utility solar owner in Ohio,” Lars Petersson, IKEA U.S. president said in a statement.

San Luis Obispo, Calif.-based REC Solar has been selected for the design and installation of the solar array. This will be the 46th solar project for IKEA taking place in the U.S. as it contributes to the generation of more than 40 MW nationwide. IKEA owns and operates each of its solar PV energy systems atop its buildings, as opposed to a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA).

Besides installing solar panels atop its Columbus store, other U.S. sustainable efforts for IKEA include: recycling all waste material; incorporating energy-efficient HVAC; LED lighting systems; recycled construction materials; skylights in warehouse areas; water-conserving restrooms into buildings; and eliminating plastic bags during checkout.

IKEA is known for its Swedish heritage, which helps the company incorporate sustainable designs into all of its buildings. As IKEA plans to build new spaces all across the country, it’s likely they will continue to incorporate designs that improve energy-efficiency and use sustainable resources.