Not content with using solar power on its satellites, and energy saving carbon-composite panels on its new Dreamliner, the Boeing Company has decided to completely cover the roof of its Dreamliner assembly centre with solar panels.

The more than 18000 thin film laminate panels will be laid flat on the surface, and are expected to provide up to 2.6 megawatts of electrical generation capacity — enough to power about 250 homes.

It will be the sixth largest solar installation by generating capacity in the USA.

“This will be a 100 percent renewable energy site and it’s the first site we have in the world that is making that commitment,” said Jim Albaugh, President and CEO of Boeing’s market focused division, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

It is hoped that Boeing’s example will pave the way for other large corporates to invest in solar generation facilities.