Neutrogena To Install $1.4 million, 200 kW Solar System

A major development in the reduction of electricity costs and production of energy occurred today (March 6) with the joint announcement from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and the Neutrogena Corporation that the health and beauty products firm will be the first major company to install a solar system in Los Angeles. The installation will also be the largest in the city.

Neutrogena, a Johnson & Johnson company, will install a 200 kW system, 100 kW installations in two buildings, at its corporate headquarters facility located near the Los Angeles International Airport. Project cost is $1.4 million. The solar system will help reduce energy consumption by 20 percent monthly. The project, which will cover 24,000 square feet of roof area, is scheduled to begin in May and to be completed in July.

“This is precisely the type of innovation and leadership we need from California-based businesses and municipal utilities to help solve the energy crisis on a long term basis,” said California Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Fred Keeley (D-Santa Cruz), who has taken a lead role in finding solutions to the state’s energy crisis.

“Solar power system contributions to our energy needs are immediate, and the environmental benefits enduring,” said Mr. Keeley.

“Neutrogena is a wonderful example of a local company that wants to be a good neighbor in the community as well as provide a model to other businesses. Neutrogena needs to be commended for their leadership,” said Councilmember Ruth Galanter, president pro tem of the Los Angeles City Council.

“Neutrogena takes great pride in its commitment to new ideas and innovation with our products in the marketplace,” said Michael McNamara, president of Neutrogena Corporation, “and with equal pride we are pleased to partner with LADWP in this leadership role in our community, to help resolve the energy crisis plaguing California.”

According to Angelina Galiteva, LADWP director of strategic planning, Neutrogena’s solar program will eliminate more than 513,000 pounds of CO2 emitted to the environment annually, the equivalent of removing 53 automobiles from Los Angeles streets. Also, the annual cost savings to Neutrogena is equivalent to the cost of powering 100 average size homes in the city of Los Angeles.