Mallrats Lit Up By Solar Energy in California

The Shops at Mission Viejo in Mission Viejo,CA is getting a green makeover with the largest solar installation in a U.S. shopping mall. The 173 kilowatt. 20,000 sq. foot system was installed by Element Markets, LLC--the country's largest owner and developer of high-end retail real estate.

Mission Viejo's $1.5 million system has been up and running since December 31, and is currently providing up to 5% of electricity demand at the mall. That may not sound like much--until you consider the massive electrical needs of multiple restaurants, electronics stores, escalators, elevators, and clothing companies.

The mall has already installed energy-efficient fluorescent lighting in parking structures and common areas, but there are still many sustainable steps that Mission Viejo can take, including the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, rainwater catchment systems, and priority parking spots for hybrid vehicles. 

[Via Bizjournals]