The Hertz Corp. announced July 9 that the upcoming construction of two new solar installation sites this year is the initial launch of Phase Two of the company's solar energy program: Newark International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Combined, the new locations will generate more than 800,000 kilowatt hours of renewable energy and save 641 tons (581 metric tons) of carbon emissions annually, according to the company.

"Expanding our solar facilities is part of Hertz's ongoing commitment to sustainable business practices," said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz chairman and CEO. "We have taken a number of steps over the past year to fulfill our goal of leading the travel industry in renewable energy production and utilizing energy best practices across our operations. With this latest expansion, Hertz will increase its renewable energy generation while continuing to reduce costs companywide."

During 2012, Hertz will also complete the installation of eight additional solar systems at locations in: Augusta, Ga.; Denver; Los Angeles; Macon, Ga.; Newark, N.J., New York City and Boston.

Most recently, the company completed the solar installation at its corporate headquarters in Park Ridge, N.J., which is expected to generate 300,000 kilowatt hours of renewable energy annually. By 2011, Hertz installed solar systems at seven car and equipment rental locations. In total, Hertz will produce more than 3.1 million kilowatt hours of solar PV (Photovoltaic) energy at Hertz locations across the United States, saving 2,138 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually — equivalent to the annual CO2 emissions generated from electricity use in 267 homes, according to the company.

As part of Hertz's ongoing commitment to renewable energy generation and investment in clean technology, the company has also joined the EPA Green Power Partnership. This is a voluntary program which encourages and recognizes organizations that produce and buy green power as a mechanism to reduce the environmental impacts associated with electricity use.

Hertz's global sustainability initiatives also include providing alternative fuel and fuel-efficient vehicles to customers and operational environmental programs, such as energy management, waste reduction and resource conservation, all of which are highlighted by the company's global sustainability strategy, Living Journey.

To read Hertz’s initial announcement of its most recent sustainability strategy, click here.