CNC machine tool builder Haas Automation Inc (www.haas.co.uk)has installed a 1MW solar-power system at its manufacturing facility in Oxnard, California.

The roof-mounted photo-voltaic system is currently producing 3,200-3,500kWh of electricity per day.

Because the Oxnard area averages 276 days of sunshine each year, solar energy is a good option for Haas to reduce its carbon emissions and cut its energy costs.

The installation has 3,204 panels and is not large enough to power the entire Haas facility at this point, but it is expected to save the company more than $500,000 a year.