IKEA is truly the epitome of a global company that focuses on the triple bottom line. It sure is profitable, with 2012 profits of over $4 billion. And it absolutely cares about the 139,000 people who work for the Swedish company. Most amazingly, IKEA cares deeply about the planet. IKEA has set a goal to get all of its energy from renewable power sources by 2020, and will invest $1.8 billion in solar and wind power to produce at least 70 percent of the group’s energy by 2015. Just a few of the bijillion things IKEA has done for a more sustainable planet include installing solar panels to its own stores, installing electric vehicle charging stations to some stores, and planning to sell ONLY LED bulbs and lamps by 2016.
Last week, I learned that IKEA will now be selling solar panels in all 17 of its stores in the UK in the next 10 months. According to IKEA, these solar panels will cost around $9,200 for a three-bedroom home. These systems are from the Chinese manufacturer Hanergy Solar Group. With the help of British government subsidies, panel purchasers should be able to see returns within seven years. And, unlike IKEA furniture that you have to install yourself, IKEA will have their people install these panels for you.
Umm…what??? That’s amazing! It’s so wonderful to see large companies who can make a difference actually do make a difference. This is a great opportunity for home owners to make their homes more eco-friendly. And yes, it’s a hefty up front cost, but if you plan on staying in your house for more than 7 years, it’s going to be worth it.
Too bad IKEA doesn’t have plans to sell solar in the United States. They’re going to do a test run in Europe, and if solar panels sell, then they might think about moving it over to the states. I’m hoping that happens sooner rather than later!
IKEA can very easily just be a company that sells affordable furniture. But it’s more than just that. It’s a company that is dedicated to making our planet a more sustainable place to live. And that is just so inspirational.
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