Amazon is betting big on using solar panels on distribution centres. 15 distribution centres in the US will be fitted with solar panels this year, with another 50 distribution centres to be fitted with solar panels on their roofs by 2021.
The total capacity of the solar panels to be installed in 2017 is 41 megawatts, the US online shop writes in a press release. In some cases, the solar panels provide 80 per cent of the distribution centre's energy requirements.
Dave Clark, senior vice-president of the company, lists the benefits of sustainability: "By using a variety of energy sources, we can reduce energy costs and keep prices low for our consumers. We use the innovative culture that exists within our company to become more sustainable. Not only because it is good for the environment, but also for our financial picture," Clark said in the press release.
It is not Amazon's first step towards sustainability. In several US states - including Ohio and Texas - the e-commerce giant owns huge wind and solar farms. In total, Amazon generates some 3.6 million megawatts of renewable energy.
