One of Fairfax, California's most prominent landmarks will soon be powered by solar energy. Cinema West has announced the installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its Fairfax 5 Theatres, making it the first major motion multiplex cinema in America to go solar.

The historic theatre, built in 1952, will offset a significant portion of its electricity costs with solar energy, resulting in savings of over $627,000 over the 30-year life of the system. SPG Solar, Inc. is the developer and installer of the 27 Kilowatt (AC) solar PV system.

Dave Corkill, founder of Cinema West, a leading California major motion cinema chain, has owned and operated the Fairfax 5 Theatres for over 13 years and recently turned it into Marin's first all digital projection theatre.

"I wanted a sustainable and renewable energy solution for the Fairfax Theatre. Solar energy will not only help us offset our electricity costs, but will also reduce greenhouse emissions and propagate the environmental ideals of this progressive community. The Fairfax Theatre's marquis is one of the first things you see when entering Fairfax. Now we are proud that it also represents clean energy," said Corkill.

Ted Walsh, Sales Manager for SPG Solar, stated, "Over its 30-year life, the PV system at Fairfax Theatre is expected to offset nearly 1,000 tons of greenhouse gases, including over 2 million pounds of carbon dioxide, equivalent to removing 180 cars off the road. As a resident of Fairfax myself, I am very excited to see Cinema West taking on an environmental leadership role in town. It's an exciting addition to the community."

The rooftop solar system is comprised of 42 solar modules tilted and oriented to the south for optimal production. A State rebate and Federal tax credit helped pay for nearly half of the total system cost, with the system expected to pay for itself in 5 years.