San Francisco 49ers name SunPower ‘exclusive solar technology partner’ for the new stadium
The San Francisco 49ers have vowed to make their new $1.2 billion stadium in Santa Clara the greenest in the NFL.
Toward that end, the team announced Tuesday that San Jose-based SunPower (SPWRA), Silicon Valley’s largest solar manufacturer, will be the “official and exclusive solar technology partner of the San Francisco 49ers and the new Santa Clara Stadium.”
SunPower will supply 400 kilowatts of solar panels that will help offset the power consumed by the stadium during home games. Construction of the stadium is under way, and it is slated to open in 2014.
The new facility features a variety of green and sustainable design elements, including bike parking, water-conserving plumbing fixtures, a green roof that includes a garden of native plants, locally grown produce at eateries and charging stations for electric cars.
SunPower’s solar panels will be featured in three solar array-covered bridges between the stadium and the parking lot, on a canopy above the green roof and over the 49ers training facility.
“We are pleased that SunPower’s industry-leading solar technology will be an integral part of our innovative and sustainable vision for the stadium,” 49ers CEO Jed York said in a statement. “As we strive to create a sports and entertainment venue that embodies all that is special about The Bay Area and Silicon Valley, it is fitting that SunPower, with its global headquarters less than two miles from the new stadium, will be providing us with its high-efficiency solar panels.”
“SunPower is excited to have the opportunity to help power the new stadium with clean, reliable solar power,” SunPower CEO Tom Werner said in a statement.