Ala Moana, Hawaii’s largest shopping mall
Ala Moana Center, Hawaii’s largest shopping mall, installed a 2.8 MW solar system on the previously unused rooftop and parking canopy structures that cover over 4,500 spaces. The solar panel system has over 13,000 solar panels and generates almost 5 gigawatts of electrical power per year. The solar system is one of the largest rooftop solar systems in Hawaii and produces nearly 6 million kWh annually which is enough energy to power 950 Hawaii homes for an entire year.
PROJECT
OVERVIEW
Ala Moana Center is an open-air shopping oasis and a source of pride for locals. It is consistently ranked among the most valuable shopping centers in the U.S. and is the world’s largest open-air shopping center where tourists and locals can enjoy ocean breezes, lush tropical gardens, and ponds.
The shopping center’s solar system was installed over five phases. The work was often done after-hours whenever possible to ensure safety for workers, pedestrians, and shoppers, especially during the year-end shopping seasons.
IMPACT
OF Project
Ala Moana Center serves both tourists and the surrounding local community with a blend of luxury boutiques such as Prada and Louis Vuitton alongside only-in-Hawaii stores, including 100 small businesses that feature native Hawaiian-owned and made-in-Hawaii products. Locally-owned brands include T&C Surf Designs and Sera’s Surf ‘N Shore.
Solar Power Generation
The center’s solar system, with over 13,000 panels, generates nearly 6 million kWh annually, enough to power 950 homes each year.
Waste-to-Animal Feed
Food waste from the center is processed into animal feed, reducing environmental impact and supporting local farms.
Biodiesel Production
Recaptured cooking oil is converted into approximately 66,490 gallons of biodiesel fuel annually, used to power heavy machinery.
Energy Efficiency
The solar system covers previously unused rooftop and parking spaces, optimizing space and reducing energy costs.
Community Support
The sustainable practices support local agriculture and promote a circular economy within the community.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
These initiatives collectively lower the center’s carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
FINANCING
THE PROJECT
The Ala Moana Center financed its solar panel installation through a combination of strategic partnerships and refinancing. Specifically, the project was part of a broader $1.4 billion mortgage loan refinancing facilitated by Goldman Sachs for General Growth Properties (GGP), the owner of Ala Moana Center.
This refinancing effort allowed for significant capital improvements, including the installation of the extensive solar power system.
