Solar Power Blooms in Warren: GM is first automaker to deploy Tracking Solar Tree

Engineerblogger
Nov 19, 2011

Solar Tree

General Motors is introducing a solar charging canopy that moves with the sun. The Tracking Solar Tree® is located at GM Company Vehicle Operations.

“We are constantly looking for places where we can add a renewable focus,” said Rob Threlkeld, GM global manager of renewable energy. “This solar tree is an ideal addition because not only does it provide a space to charge our electric vehicles, but it’s another step in our journey toward cleaner energy use.”

The Tracking Solar Tree, built in America by Envision Solar, features a hybrid multi-axis tracking design which enables the entire canopy to track the sun, increasing clean renewable energy production by about 25 percent. This structure will produce up to 30,000 kilowatt hours a year and provide enough solar energy to charge six electric vehicles per day.

“General Motors’ commitment to the environment is clear,” said Desmond Wheatley, president of Envision Solar. “Our tracking Solar Trees® are a beautiful and visible embodiment of that commitment. We look forward to deploying many more in the months to come.”

This array supports GM’s position as a leading user of renewable energy in manufacturing, deriving energy for manufacturing operations from solar, hydro, and landfill gas resources. In the United States, 1.4 percent of GM energy consumption comes from renewable resources.


Source: General Motors