US Foods Activates Solar Power System in Albuquerque

Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, US Foods has activated its 430 kilowatt solar power system at its distribution center in Albuquerque, N.M.  Consisting of 1,772 photovoltaic panels, the system will provide nearly 25 percent of the facility’s energy needs.

“US Foods is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and providing a more sustainable future for our customers and community,” said John Szurek, division president for Rosemont, Ill.-based US Foods. “This solar panel system will improve our efficiency and allow us to meet our customers’ needs in a more sustainable way.”

The solar panel installation – which will offset the equivalent of 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the next 25 years -- is the latest in a series of green initiatives implemented at the Albuquerque division. Prior improvements have included green landscaping and the installation of high-efficiency lighting throughout the facility.

"New Mexicans are committed to an energy future for our nation that is both clean and domestic to increase our energy independence and create jobs here at home," said U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich, adding that “we're proud to have business leaders that are looking out for the future of the state. Congratulations to US Foods on this impressive accomplishment."

The installation was commemorated by a “Flip the Switch” event at US Foods’ Albuquerque division. Notable attendees included Patricia Dominguez, Office of U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich; Christine Landavazo, Office of U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman; Bianca Ortiz Wertheim, Office of U.S. Sen. Tom Udall; Michael Padilla, New Mexico State Senator-elect; Tom Zdunek, Bernalillo County Manager; and Art De La Cruz, Bernalillo County Commissioner.

In addition to the Albuquerque location, US Foods has installed solar panels to power distribution centers in Perth Amboy, N.J., La Mirada, Calif., Phoenix and San Francisco.