Solaire Generation, the market leader for innovative solar parking structures and systems, recently saw its first Long Span R5 parking garage solar canopy unveiled at the global headquarters of Staples, the world's largest office products company. The canopy elegantly crowns Staples' existing parking garage, generating clean energy and enhancing the parking experience for scores of employees and visitors, providing protection from sun, snow and rain.
Solaire designed, engineered, fabricated and installed its proprietary Long Span R5 design, completing the installation on time and on budget.
SunEdison, a leading worldwide solar energy services provider and subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials, developed the project and will operate the solar installation, providing energy to Staples at long-term, predictable pricing.
“Staples has long been a leader in sustainability efforts," said Solaire Generation CEO Laurence Mackler. "We are honored to have worked with SunEdison, a premier solar developer, to deliver a cutting edge solar system for Staples."Solaire designed its Long Span R5 product specifically to accommodate new and existing multi-level parking garages in a variety of climates.The canopy achieves optimal southern orientation for virtually any garage, offering high productivity complemented by a safe, durable and aesthetically pleasing design.
Designed to withstand 55 psf snow loads and 100 mph wind loads, the Staples project consists of more than 2,440 SunEdison Silvantis™ solar modules and will generate an estimated 850,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy annually to help power Staples’ 650,000 square-foot headquarters office building. The solar power system will offset more than 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) over the next 20 years—equivalent to removing more than 2,300 cars driving 12,000 miles per year.
The Long Span R5 is the latest addition to Solaire's line of innovative solar parking structures, systems, and sculptures.
