Suntech Hawaii announced it recently completed a 223-killowatt high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) solar electric power system installation at D. Otani Produce in Kalihi. The 1,275-panel solar system took seven weeks to install and will generate enough electricity to power nearly 40 homes for a year. The system became operational last week.

"We rely heavily on electricity because we have a one-acre refrigeration system that keeps our produce fresh," said Dwight Otani, D. Otani Produce founder and owner. "Unfortunately, with the rising cost of oil, our electricity bill more than doubled since 2006 so we needed to do something quickly that would help us to reduce our electricity bill."

The new system will reduce the company's monthly electricity bill by approximately 20 percent, or a savings of $85,000.

"We strive to provide quality produce with outstanding service and competitive prices and this new system will help to ensure that we can continue to pass on the best prices to our customers," said Otani. "In addition to the cost savings, as a local produce wholesaler, it was also important for us to take care of our 'aina and be green."

In one year, the system will prevent approximately 299 tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere, offset more than 9,000 barrels of oil that would otherwise be burned to make electricity, and save approximately 120 acres of virgin forest.

"This is the largest PV system we've installed to date on Oahu, and we were able to do it in less than two months," said Suntech Hawaii President Sean Mullen. "After meeting with Dwight, our engineers developed a tailored solution that met D. Otani's energy needs, while our crews were able to retrofit the system seamlessly into the existing roof structure. We look forward to developing similar large systems for both commercial and government clients as renewable energy systems grow in popularity in Hawaii."

Suntech Hawaii is a renewable energy company specializing in solar photovoltaic and hot water systems. Founded in 2004, the company is now the largest Hawaii-owned and -operated solar integrator, and is an authorized SunPower dealer. Suntech Hawaii is active across the Hawaiian Islands and works with local and national alternative energy finance partners to make solar energy an accessible, affordable option for Hawaii businesses, government and non-profit entities. For more information visit www.suntechhawaii.com. Suntech Hawaii is not a subsidiary or affiliate of the solar module manufacturer Suntech (NYSE: STP).