Facebook, the world’s largest social networking website has recently decided to turn to renewable energy. The company plans to install a nicely-sized solar power system to power its new Menlo Park, Calif., headquarters.
Last year, Facebook officials said that the company’s data center is one of the most energy efficient in the world, being powered from multiple sources, including renewables.
The cogeneration system, which is being built by Cogenra Solar, will be much more efficient than a simple solar PV system because it will include both solar photovoltaic production and solar hot water heating.
The 24-module system is planned to be installed on the roof of Facebook’s 10,000 square foot fitness center, providing clean energy for the hot water for the showers and fitness machines.
The solar system will be capable of generating about 50 kw of thermal energy and 10 kw of electricity. For the future, Facebook wants to expand the system, perhaps using the hot water in on-campus cafes.
[via CrispGreen]
