Chipotle has announced they will install solar panels in 75 different restaurant locations over the next 12 months.

This eco-friendly initiative is predicted to collectively generate 500kw of electricity, propelling Chipotle to the top of the list for producing the most solar power in the restaurant industry. All solar panel installations will be performed by Standard Renewable Energy, a Houston based company focused on alternative energy solutions.

Chipotle reports solar panels have already been installed in 13 locations. All locations were selected based on key factors to determine where the solar panels would be most effective.

I was already familiar with this company’s efforts to use sustainable energy and renewable products. I’m glad to see they are taking it a step further with this huge solar rollout. I hope more restaurants follow their example.

Solar Energy Initiatives announced yesterday they had completed an 80 kilowatt solar panel project for the Canyon City School District in Colorado. The project included the installation of 3300 solar panels on 10 different buildings.The solar project is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1250 tons annually.

A press release by SEI noted the project came at no out-of-pocket expense to the school district:

“SEI partnered with a general contractor, funding source and a solar installation company to install the solar system at no “out of pocket” expense to the school district. SEI completed the Power Purchase Agreement, supplied the solar equipment and balance of system for the school district project. Solar Energy Initiatives will also generate revenue through the sale of the newly generated solar energy to the school district over a 20-year contract period.”

Sounds like a happy ending.