Lindo's Group of Companies is to become the Island's first business to adopt large-scale renewable energy. The supermarket chain yesterday announced a contract with Alternative Energy Systems (AES) to equip its two stores with a 210,000-watt solar energy system.

"At Lindo's we like to find efficient, environmentally-friendly ways of doing business," said Lindo's President Giorgio Zanol. "Today we have decided to use solar energy because we believe that the technology has evolved to be efficient and dependable."

According to an AES estimate, the company stands to save almost $145,000 annually on electricity bills. Admitting that the decision to install the solar panels was motivated in part by a desire to save money, Mr. Zanol insisted the benefits to the environment were more important.

"We want a better, cleaner Bermuda. Bermuda gave me the chance to run a business with my family and we want to give back — to make it better than how we found it," he said.

The panels, manufactured by the SunPower Corporation, can use solar energy to charge batteries or convert it in to alternating current (AC) electricity to power buildings.

"Not only is solar power a sound option from corporate social responsibility perspective, but it also makes good long-term financial sense for businesses," said Tim Madeiros, chief executive of AES.

"While the renewable energy market is relatively undeveloped in Bermuda, the technology is now very advanced. The system we have designed and engineered for Lindo's incorporates the most powerful and efficient photovoltaic panels available on the market today."

Both men said they hoped the example of Lindo's would encourage other businesses to embrace renewable energy.

Joining them at the announcement yesterday was Energy Minister Michael Scott.

"As highlighted in the Government's Energy Green Paper published in February 2009, Bermuda is geographically well-positioned for solar energy collection and we have a rich resource to tap into. These factors facilitate the successful adoption of photovoltaic systems on the island," said Mr. Scott, who congratulated Lindo's and AES for showing leadership in the field.

"The Department of Energy intends to encourage Bermuda to become a world leader in the transition to a society reliant on sustainable and green energy sources, as we diligently work toward breaking our dependence on foreign oil, forging Bermuda's first steps toward self-reliance," he added.