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Implementation of these projects will extend the IKEA solar presence to nearly 85% of its U.S. locations. Collectively, the five stores will total 4.8 megawatts (MW) of solar generating capacity, approximately 20,400 panels, and an annual output of 5.62 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity -- the equivalent to reducing 4,273 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) -- equal to eliminating the emissions of 760 cars or providing electricity for 484 homes yearly.

This investment by IKEA reinforces the company's long-term commitment to sustainability and confidence in photovoltaic (PV) technology. IKEA will own and operate each of its solar PV energy systems atop its buildings -- as opposed to a solar lease or PPA (power purchase agreement) -- now including its two Chicago-area stores (Bolingbrook and Schaumburg), as well as stores in Bloomington, MN, Canton, MI and Pittsburgh, PA.

IKEA already has 12 U.S. solar energy systems operational with 20 more underway. Installing solar panels atop these five locations will increase the company's U.S. solar presence to nearly 85% and will result in a total generating capacity of 31.6 MW in the U.S. "We are pleased that solar energy systems already have proven successful at IKEA locations and are thrilled we now can complete the solar coverage of all our Midwestern stores," said Mike Ward, IKEA U.S. president. "With only 44 locations nationwide, we try to contribute whenever and wherever possible to creating a better everyday life for the many. So -- from a sustainability perspective -- we are open to ideas for incorporating key environmental technologies and look forward to considering other opportunities as they arise too."

IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and reflects a business and operating model designed to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates locations for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution.

Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings, such as energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, eliminating plastic bags from the check-out process, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers' compact fluorescent bulbs. Also, IKEA is installing solar panels atop many of its U.S. locations and EV charging stations at nine western stores.

There are currently more than 330 IKEA stores in 40 countries, including 38 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment.