The Mall of Victor Valley welcomed its first solar canopies on June 9, which will provide shaded parking, generate renewable energy and reduce annual costs by more than $200,000, mall officials say.
Four new solar canopies were installed in the center parking lot that are expected to generate approximately 890,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable energy annually.
The shaded car parks will also serve to enhance customer shopping experiences by keeping cars cool during the summer months. Shaded asphalt areas beneath the canopies can remain at temperatures approximately 35-55 degrees cooler compared to uncovered parking, creating a more comfortable environment for shoppers.
“This project reflects our commitment to creating a shopping environment that is both welcoming and forward-thinking,” said Laura Andre, Property Manager at The Mall of Victor Valley. “The solar canopies provide immediate benefits for our guests through shaded parking while also supporting meaningful, long-term sustainability efforts that will positively impact our community.”
The solar project is part of mall owner Macerich’s broader companywide sustainability strategy focused on renewable energy investments, energy efficiency and carbon-reduction initiatives across its portfolio of shopping malls.
Macerich aims to achieve net-zero emission operations by 2035. Company representatives say the new solar canopies at the Mall of Victor Valley represent a milestone in their commitment to finding environmentally responsible business solutions.
Previous development at the Mall of Victor Valley
See’s Candies closed its doors to chocolate lovers in February this year after 40 years of satisfying High Desert customers’ sweet tooths.
In its absence, Pandora, one of the world’s largest jewelry brands, made its sparkling debut at the Mall of Victor Valley in May on the south end of the mall. It is the first Pandora store in the High Desert.
ROUND1 Bowling & Arcade is also moving into the mall soon, bringing gaming, food and karaoke with it in late 2026. Its 78,000 square feet will include bowling lanes, professional billiards tables, private karaoke rooms and a massive arcade.
McKenna Mobley is a reporter for the Daily Press. She can be reached at mmobley@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Victor Valley Mall adds solar carports, saves $200K yearly
Reporting by McKenna Mobley, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By McKenna Mobley, Victorville Daily Press | USA TODAY Network
