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In McKinney, Texas, just north of Dallas, a Wal-Mart is employing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels gracefully integrated into the suburban landscape's motif. Power generated from 7,500 square feet of solar panels is expected to produce more than 48,000 kWh/yr. It represents the retail industry's largest solar demonstration project to date.
Meanwhile, just outside of New York City, a 76,000 square foot solar roof is operating in the newly reconstructed Stillwell Avenue subway station on historic Coney Island. Stillwell becomes the city's first solar powered train terminal and is expected to contribute approximately 250,000 kWh/yr to the station's non-traction power needs.
The two PV solar systems, manufactured by RWE SCHOTT SOLAR (RSS), reflect a growing trend for the use of solar-generated power employed in both private businesses and public facilities. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the global PV market has averaged a 25 percent annual growth over the past 10 years, with worldwide growth rates at more than 35 percent for the past five years.
The Texas Wal-Mart...