(Jun. 19) – Gucci, world’s leading brand of fashion and luxury, Azienda Elettrica Ticinese (AET) and Aziende Municipalizzate di Bellinzona (Amb) have signed an agreement for the construction of a solar system on the roof of the new Gucci logistics center in Sant’Antonino. With a capacity of about 1,500 kWp and an expected annual production of 1,650 MWh, enough to cover the energy needs of 430 households, the new plant will be the largest in Ticino. The plant was designed by AET and will be built with high efficiency solar panels, able to exploit the full potential of the roof of the building, which has an area of 20,000 sqm and has a good insulation. The electricity generated will be put into the medium-voltage grid of Amb. The installation will begin during the summer and commissioning is scheduled for spring 2014. The construction costs will be assumed equally by AET and AMB, while Gucci will grant the concession of the surface for 25 years. From the side of Gucci, The operation is perfectly consistent with the attention paid from Gucci towards the environment and the respect of people and their culture. The installation of solar panels at the new logistics center of Sant’Antonino is just the last step in the direction of a responsible approach to business, even in Switzerland, where Gucci is one of the leading brands to invest into businesses distribution. The plant will contribute to give Gucci, the prestigious LEED certification, an internationally recognized validation for companies who significantly reduce the environmental impact of their buildings. The transaction represents the best example of effective cooperation between private companies and local institutions. Thanks to this solar system, AET and AMB will also significantly increase the photovoltaic power installed in Ticino. (Peg)
