Cotti Foods Corporation will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 21st at 10am PT to unveil three new solar canopies installed at the franchisee’s Taco Bell on 1051 S Mooney Blvd in Tulare, California. Integrate Solar installed two 45’ solar canopies over the drive-thru and one 45’ solar canopy in the parking lot. The 56.1 kW system is expected to reduce energy costs by over $700,000 over the life of the solar panels.
This is now the second Taco Bell owned by Cotti Foods Corporation with solar canopies installed by Integrate Solar; the first location was in Delano, California.
“The continued increase in utility costs and energy demands all over the state has prompted Cotti to explore multiple programs aimed at helping our restaurants offset these expenses. With Integrate Solar canopies, we aim to generate 50% of our restaurant’s power from solar energy. This will not only assist in reducing costs for the restaurant, but, more importantly, in decreasing the amount of power each restaurant requires from the utility company,” says Ryan Zacche, Chief Development Officer of Cotti Foods.
The multi-functional benefits of the solar canopies go beyond just helping the franchisee be more profitable. Cotti Foods wanted to add solar canopies over the drive-thru and parking area to protect customers and team members from the intense summer heat and even the recent torrential rain.
“We’re thrilled to be able to support Cotti Foods’ efforts to improve the experience of diners visiting their restaurants by installing our solar canopies which were designed specifically for the restaurant industry,” says Ty Benefiel, co-founder and CEO of Integrate Solar.
The solar canopies, which can be seen clearly by drivers on Mooney Blvd, serve as a tangible example of Cotti Foods’ commitment to sustainability.
“Cotti Foods has always been interested in making our restaurants more efficient. We have made improvements in energy-saving air conditioning units, refrigeration, grills, lights, and now solar energy. By reducing our need for electricity, we ensure it is available for others who need it. We will continue to seek ways to improve our restaurants to reduce electricity usage,” says Ryan Zacche.
With two solar canopy projects completed and eight more locations underway, Cotti Foods has appreciated Integrate Solar’s ability to install solar canopies at open restaurants without disrupting operations. Installing solar canopies is a unique solution to both increase profitability while also improving the overall customer experience, which is what Cotti Foods has done so well for nearly 60 years.
