Costa Farms reduces carbon footprint via solar panels, reflective paint, sensors
Costa Farms reduces carbon footprint via solar panels, reflective paint, sensors
Costa Farms, a large grower of ornamental plants headquartered in Miami, began construction on new solar panels at its company’s headquarters and two other buildings, and by the end of May it was relying on the solar panels for 25 percent of its energy use, according to a news release.
“Sustainability is a top priority for Costa Farms and for the communities where we live and work,” said Jose Smith, president and chief executive officer at Costa Farms, in the release. “With almost 250 days of sun annually, we think Miami could be the leader in solar energy.”
The 861 solar panels covering 22,386 square feet will generate 386,534 kilowatt-hours with zero greenhouse gas emissions annually. The annual CO2 offset is 493,487 pounds, which is equivalent to taking 45 cars off the street or planting 56 acres of trees. The energy savings from the use of the solar panels is also equal to reducing barrels of oil by 574 gallons, propane use by 185,058 pounds or to recycling 85 tons of waste per year.
The company has also installed occupancy and daylight sensors to control the lights at its corporate headquarters and has painted the roof in reflective paint. By reducing the amount of electricity drawn from sources such as coal and natural gas, Costa Farms is contributing to cleaner air, water and soil.
“By switching to solar panels, we’re focusing on doing the right thing for our community, the planet and our company,” said Smith.
