12/04/2002
Bob Casteel
217/785-3948
800/785-6055
www.illinoisbiz.biz
217/785-3948
800/785-6055
www.illinoisbiz.biz
First Downstate Solar-Powered Convenience Store Opens In Springfield
"Generating electricity from sunlight is becoming an important source of power for many Illinois consumers," said DCCA Deputy Director Mitch Beaver. "Illinois is committed to solar power as part of our state energy policy. We look forward to developing additional demonstration projects that incorporate energy efficient designs and renewable energy technologies in new construction and building renovations."
In July, the Department awarded a $60,741 renewable energy grant to construct Illinois' first downstate solar-powered convenience store. Mac's, in partnership with BP and DCCA, used the funds to purchase and install 280 photovoltaic panels as part of a $1 million renovation of the former Amoco gasoline station.
The DCCA grant was awarded from the Renewable Energy Resources Trust Fund. Revenues from the Trust Fund support grants to promote renewable energy projects in Illinois.
Mac's Convenience Stores, LLC, formally known as Bigfoot Food Stores, operates 225 convenience stores and service stations in the Midwest and is owned by Couche-Tard of Quebec, Ontario. The company markets motor fuels under the BP and other major oil brands.
The newly renovated facility features an array of solar modules integrated into a translucent pump island canopy. The solar modules will generate 10.1 kilowatts of emissions-free electricity -- enough power to meet about 20 percent of the station's overall energy needs. The solar modules will lower the station's operating costs by reducing the amount of electricity to be purchased from City Water, Light and Power.
The solar canopy is a prominent feature at BP Connect, the company's new retail concept. Photovoltaic modules are integrated into the canopy panels using a "thin film" technology developed by BP Solar to harness power from the sun while permitting light to pass through. The result is a clean, bright look across the fuel dispensing area.
"Mac's is one of the first independent marketing companies in the U.S. to adopt the new BP solar canopy," said Gary Stewart, Manager, Midwest Government Relations, for BP. "Support for projects such as this clearly demonstrates DCCA's efforts to encourage development of renewable energy in Illinois."
BP and BP Solar are units of BP plc, the London-based energy and petrochemical company. BP was formed from the combination of BP, Amoco and ARCO, and is the second largest energy company in the world. BP also is the leading oil and gas producer in the U.S. BP Solar is a leading manufacturer of solar products, and BP's retail operations are the largest user of solar products in the U.S.
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