Lowe’s solar reach

Lowe’s has announced details of rooftop solar panel installations at its 174 store and distribution center locations nationwide, including 20 sites currently in operation.

“This initial rooftop solar portfolio is one example of the collaboration we seek with partners as we work toward our long-term and interim net-zero goals,” said Chris Cassell, vice president of corporate sustainability at Lowe’s.

Through partnerships with DSD Renewables (DSD), Greenskies Clean Focus and Infiniti Energy, Lowe’s said its rooftop solar panel installations span locations throughout California, Illinois and New Jersey.

“Investing in renewable energy lowers operating costs and is an important step in reducing emissions associated with our stores and distribution centers,” said Cassell.

These investments will help the retailer reduce its operational emissions and reach its goal of having its operations powered with 50% renewable energy by 2030.

The rooftop solar portfolio of 174 locations, said the firm, includes:

• 20 stores in New Jersey that are currently operational through Infiniti Energy. Panel installations at six additional Lowe's stores in the state are in development and scheduled to be operational later this year.
• 55 stores in California as well as 36 stores and three distribution centers in Illinois planned in partnership with DSD. Construction is expected to begin at all sites by the end of 2023.
• 52 stores and two distribution centers in California, in partnership with Greenskies Clean Focus, scheduled to begin construction later this year.

This investment in rooftop solar panels, said the retailer, builds on its recent sustainability progress, including achieving its 2025 goal of reducing scope 1 and scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 40% – relative to 2016 emissions levels – four years early.

“At Lowe’s, we are focused on operating responsibly and reducing our impact on the environment,” said Cassell.