IKEA goes solar for West Chester store

Since international home furnishings giant IKEA says it aims to be "The Life Improvement Store" by incorporating green environmental qualities in its buildings and products, the retailer's recent announcement that it will be adding solar panels to its West Chester Twp. location should come as little surprise.

Construction on the rooftop array is scheduled to begin by the end of this spring and is expected to be complete by this fall. IKEA reported that the 4,452-panel array should reduce the store's greenhouse gas emissions by 1,012 tons of carbon dioxide and will lower the cost of its electric bill.

"IKEA's main goal is to focus on sustainability, but with this project, it is probably our most visible way to show our visitors and customers that we are actually doing something to make a better life for people by reducing our carbon footprint," said IKEA spokesperson Kitalena Mason. "We are happy to take the lead with this project and hope to inspire other businesses and residents to find their own sustainable project."

Because IKEA already commits to sustainable efforts such as recycling waste material, incorporating environmental measures with the construction, using energy efficient lighting systems, and having water efficient restrooms, IKEA feels it is their responsibility to be a leader in the community for sustainable efforts. Although surrounding businesses and residents in the area may not have the funds and capacity to install solar panels, Mason explained that the company wants to encourage other businesses in West chester and Mason to pursue their own sustainable projects, whether it pertains to recycling, lighting materials, or solar power. The store staff also plans to update customers, visitors and community partners as the solar array project progresses. In addition, Mason said the retailer hopes to work with local schools to give students exposure to the technology going in on the big blue building's roof.

"Between the Zoo and IKEA, [Cincinnati] will definitely start to be viewed as a green city," Mason added. "Typically, people view Portland or Seattle as a green city, but Cincinnati has wanted to get into that mix with having smaller businesses installing smaller solar and wind projects. If you have enough of those sprinkled throughout the city, Cincinnati's image may turn into a green city."

Writer: Lisa Ensminger