Kia’s factory in Georgia is installing a solar canopy for climate protection with 17,000 solar panels. This initiative comes after a hail storm in March 2023 damaged more than 13,000 parked vehicles, causing millions in losses.
The plant is also responsible for producing iconic models such as the Telluride, Sorento, Sportage and electric SUVs EV6 and EV9, reaching a capacity of 350,000 units per year.
Solar canopy reduces emissions and costs for Kia
Under the direction of Vehicle Protection Structures (VPS), the facility will protect finished vehicles from weather-related extreme weather events and will generate up to 13 megawatts of and will generate up to 13 megawatts of solar power. This is equivalent to covering 20% to 30% of the plant’s annual electricity consumption.
Moreover, this solution aligns with Kia’s global goal: to reduce its carbon emissions by 97% by 2045 compared to 2019 levels. In addition, the initiative allows Kia to access tax credits in the U.S. under the inflation reduction act, consolidating its strategy towards sustainability and operational efficiency.
Key project at West Point
VPS has completed about 40% of the project and completion is expected by the end of 2025. The area covered reaches 297,000 square meters at the West Point, Georgia, plant and positions Kia as a benchmark in industrial innovation in the face of climate change.
At the same time, Hyundai Motor Group’s other investments in the state of Georgia include new battery plants and and expansion of production capacity, reaffirming the region’s strategic role for the automotive group.
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Source and photo: Newsweek
