Walmart Announces the Completion of Apple Valley Distribution Center Solar Project

Solar Energy from Distribution Center to Supply 1 Megawatt of Power

Apple Valley, Calif. – Today Walmart, as a part of its commitment to expand use of renewable energy, announced completion of the company’s largest solar power project at its distribution center in Apple Valley. The Apple Valley Distribution Center solar project consists of more than 5,300 ground-mounted solar panels that cover a nearly seven-acre field and supply one megawatt (MW) power—the equivalent of powering 175 homes.

“Solar energy is an important resource in Southern California. This is just one more example of how Walmart is a great community partner" said Ginger Coleman, Apple Valley Town Councilwoman. “They aren’t just talking about being a more sustainable company, they’re acting on it.”

The Apple Valley Distribution Center solar project is part of a solar power pilot project Walmart first announced in May 2007 to purchase solar power systems for up to 22 Walmart stores, Sam’s Club locations and distribution centers in California and Hawaii. In April 2009, Walmart announced it was expanding its solar power initiative to nearly double its solar energy use in California, adding solar installations at 10 to 20 Walmart facilities over the next 18 months.

“The completion of the solar project at the Apple Valley Distribution Center marks another important step to achieve our goal of being supplied 100 percent by renewable energy,” said Scott Kubicek, general manager of the Walmart distribution center in Apple Valley. “Increasing the use of solar energy is a benefit for the environment and makes business sense.”

Walmart’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy projects is helping the retailer build a more diversified energy portfolio and create more opportunities for advancements in clean energy through research and innovations.

**Photos are available upon request.

Walmart’s Sustainability Commitment
As part of its company-wide sustainability goals, Walmart is committed to being supplied 100 percent by renewable energy, creating zero waste and selling products that sustain people and the environment. The company is moving toward these goals by using sustainable sourcing practices including energy efficiency, waste reduction, renewable energy and lifecycle management. These initiatives are making Walmart a more sustainable company and helping create a favorable environment for green job creation.

About Walmart
Walmart serves customers and members more than 200 million times per week at more than 8,000 retail units under 53 different banners in 15 countries. With fiscal year 2009 sales of $401 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.1 million associates worldwide. A leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity, Walmart ranked first among retailers in Fortune Magazine’s 2009 Most Admired Companies survey. Online merchandise sales are available at www.walmart.com and www.samsclub.com.

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What Local Leaders Are Saying

About the Apple Valley Walmart Distribution Center Solar Project


"The Apple Valley Walmart Distribution Center jumped at the chance to build solar panels to help conserve energy. I commend Walmart on taking the lead on utilizing this vital natural resource. I would encourage other companies to follow suit"
- Brad Mitzelfelt, San Bernardino County 1st District Supervisor


“I’m excited to see that Walmart chose Apple Valley as one of its first sites for its solar energy initiative. It’s important that companies and communities continue to look at innovative ways to reduce our carbon footprint.”
- Peter Allan, Apple Valley Town Councilmember


"Solar energy is an important resource in Southern California. This is just one more example of how Walmart is a great community partner. They aren’t just talking about being a more sustainable company, they’re acting on it"
- Ginger Coleman, Apple Valley Town Councilmember


"Walmart didn’t wait for regulations or mandates; they took it upon themselves to start using alternative energy, and what better place to do so than Apple Valley. Walmart is truly leading by example"
- Dennis Bender, Board of Trustees, Apple Valley Unified School District


"It doesn’t surprise me at all that the Apple Valley Walmart Distribution Center was one of the first to capitalize on the opportunity of using solar power. They are always looking at the most innovative approach to save money, which in the end is passed on to the consumer"
- Art Bishop, Deputy Fire Chief, Apple Valley Fire Protection District