Jan. 29, 2008 -- Wal-Mart has completed a 390-kilowatt solar power system at its Sam's Club store in Chino -- the first of seven California locations to receive solar array under an agreement with solar provider SunPower. Wal Mart has purchased a total of 4.6 megawatts of solar power from SunPower and other solar providers for 22 Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Clubs, and distribution centers in Hawaii and California.

"By Wal-Mart's estimates, installing the solar power systems will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 8,000 to 10,000 metric tons per year," says David Ozment, director of energy for Wal-Mart. "The solar power pilot project is a major step toward Wal-Mart's goal of being supplied 100% by renewable energy."

The solar array installed at the Sam's Club in Chino is expected to supply about 30% of the store's total energy needs.

Pictured: The solar array atop Wal-Mart experimental green store in McKinney, Texas.