"America's solar energy industry recognizes these companies for their ongoing commitment to the environment and outstanding leadership in the area of corporate responsibility"

CHICAGO, IL – The Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA) today announced the winners of this year's Solar Champion Awards, honoring top U.S. companies for their continued commitment to the deployment of clean solar energy.

Costco, FedEx, General Motors, IKEA, Johnson & Johnson, Kohl's, L'Oréal, Macy's, Safeway, Toyota, Walgreens and Walmart were among the companies honored at a ceremony at Chicago's McCormick Place.

"America's solar energy industry recognizes these companies for their ongoing commitment to the environment and outstanding leadership in the area of corporate responsibility," said SEIA President and CEO Rhone Resch. "Corporate use of clean solar energy is step forward in America's efforts to become energy independent, while creating jobs and boosting local economies. Today we're proud to salute these companies as Solar Champions."

The top 25 Corporate Solar Users in the U.S., which include today's honorees, have increased their solar capacity by 48 percent from a year ago and are using solar across 30 states and Puerto Rico, according to SEIA's annual Solar Means Business report, released last week.

The Solar Champion awards were presented at a ceremony during Solar Power International 2013, the solar industry's largest American tradeshow. The annual awards honor individuals, agencies and organizations whose innovation, leadership and determination contribute to achieving the solar industry's goal of building 10 GWs of solar capacity annually in the U.S.

About SEIA:

Established in 1974, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.