Sept. 15, 2008 - A movie theater in Fairfax, Calif., has become the first multiplex in the U.S. to install its very own solar array in a bid to defray electricity costs.

The 42-panel solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the Fairfax 5 Theaters multiplex is expected to save over $627,000 in electricity costs and offset over 2 million pounds of carbon dioxide during the 30-year life of the system, according to the theater's owner, Cinema West. Funded in part by a state rebate and federal tax credit, the company expects the system to pay for itself in 5 years.

In addition to saving money, the company is looking to attract more eco-friendly movie goers as well, according to Cinema West cofounder Dave Corkill.

"Solar energy will not only help us offset our electricity costs, but will also reduce greenhouse emissions and propagate the environmental ideals of this progressive community," Corkill says.

While large organizations from GM to the NBA's Phoenix Suns are using solar arrays to supplement their energy needs, smaller enterprises appear increasingly willing to invest in alternative energy and energy-efficient products.