Jul 27, 2006 9:22 AM, from staff and wire reports

Sharp Electronics Corp’s Solar Energy Solutions Group has provided solar modules for the largest privately owned solar installation in Northern California—at Tony’s Fine Foods in West Sacramento.

A family-owned business, Tony’s Fine Foods provides frozen and fresh foods to the retail grocery and foodservice industry throughout the West Coast. The 1.2-megawatt rooftop and ground-mounted solar electric system powers the company’s large frozen and refrigerated food distribution warehouse in West Sacramento.

Powered by 5,782 Sharp 208-watt solar modules, the system is expected to generate 1.5 million kilowatt-hours annually, accounting for more than 40% of Tony’s Fine Foods energy needs and reducing the company’s electric bills by $22,000 per month. With a rebate sponsored by PG&E, the initial cost of the system was reduced by half.

The solar electric system covers an area the size of three football fields.