Google to Install Largest Corp Solar Power System - 10/23/06

Coming together with rivals such as Microsoft Corp, Google Inc, the most popular and most used internet search engine, prepare to set up the larges US corporate solar power system. 

Google’s system will have their headquarters based in Mountain View, California.  They are predicting to produce 30% of the facility’s electricity through their solar system.  This service should be on line by the beginning of next year.  Microsoft recently installed a similar system less than two miles away.  Google’s is three times its size.

Environmental image is the leading factor in why companies are installing solar panels.  They also save on electricity and benefit from government incentives such as federal tax credits and state rebates.  This reduces the cost of solar energy by 60%. 

“Solar power users will ‘insulate themselves from fluctuating utility rates, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen relationships with stakeholders such as customers, employees and shareholders,’ said Craig Hanson, a senior associate with the World Resources Institute, a researcher of environmental issues.”

General Motors and Johnson & Johnson are among others who have installed solar power.  Google has chosen solar panels from Sharp Corp. and Microsoft is currently using SunPower Corp.

The investment into solar panels will pay off after 10 years from electricity savings.  Their system should be able to manufacture 1.6 megawatts of electricity.  Google’s announcement corresponded with the start of a solar power conference held in San Jose, Ca which is expected to have more than 4,000 people in attendance.

Source:  http://www.financialexpress.com/fe_full_story.php?content_id=143762

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