SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. — As a third generation Sunkist grower, Nick Bozick has always understood the value of sustainability and as President of Richard Bagdasarian Inc., he is expanding that commitment with the launch of a leading-edge solar technology system at the company’s packinghouse in Mecca, California. The 300kW photovoltaic solar energy system will generate electricity for the Bagdasarian plant with no air emissions, no waste production and no water use.
A Ribbon cutting ceremony to launch the new system took place this morning, December 19, 2012 with Riverside County Supervisor John J. Benoit. According to Bozick, “We’re very pleased to add solar energy to our sustainability matrix, which also includes using tier 4 tractors in the field and packing our product in reusable containers as it goes to market. This reflects our ultimate goal of responsibly lowering our carbon footprint.”
The advanced solar project works by harnessing the area’s vast solar resources and utilizes dual axis tracking technology versus the traditional fixed solar plates. The new, environmentally-friendly system will displace 540 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, the equivalent of taking 112 cars burning 60,272 gallons of gas off the road in one year or the annual consumption of electricity for 80 homes.
The company is also looking to incorporate solar in several field pumping stations and other packing facilities in a continuing effort to sustain its long-term social responsibility. For more information on Richard Bagdasarian Inc., go to www.mrgrape.com.
Nick Bozick is a third generation Sunkist grower of fresh citrus and grapes and former chairman of the sister cooperatives, Sunkist Growers, Inc. and Fruit Growers Supply Company(FGS).
About Sunkist Growers, Inc.
Sunkist is a cooperative owned by thousands of family growers and committed since 1893 to growing and delivering the highest quality, nutritious, and tasty fresh fruit.
Source: Sunkist Growers, Inc.