Loblaw Companies plans to test the waters on solar energy via a pilot project that will see solar technology installed on the rooftops of four stores in Ontario.

Working with Northland Power Income Fund, Loblaw will install photovoltaic panels on the roofs of participating stores in Ajax, Orleans, Toronto, and Whitby, providing "green", clean and renewable power in each respective city.

"This initiative is part of Loblaw's overall effort, through the use of renewable energy sources to reduce our carbon footprint," says Bob Chant, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Loblaw Companies Ltd. "We believe green energy production using innovative technologies such as these pilot projects, supports our commitment to the environment."

The Honourable Brad Duguid, Ontario Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, confirms that the Ontario Power Authority has approved more than 100 Loblaw applications for rooftop solar installations on their stores through the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program of the Green Energy Act. Loblaw will evaluate the four aforementioned pilot projects, then determine how to move forward with the next phase of rollouts.

"These projects will create a new source of income for businesses while providing new clean and green electricity in Ontario, particularly on hot, sunny summer days when demand soars," adds Duguid. "With our new domestic content rules, these projects will also help create new green collar jobs here in Ontario, as well as major economic investments in equipment and services here at home."

"We believe that solar energy, especially rooftop solar energy, will play a major role in Ontario's green energy future while dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions," concludes Jim Temerty, Chairman of Northland Power Income Fund.

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