PINEVILLE, La. - Cleco Power LLC, a subsidiary of Cleco Corporation (NSYE: CNL), and Walmart are teaming up to develop one of the largest solar projects in Louisiana by adding solar panels on the roof of Walmart in Many. The project is part of Cleco's Green Smart program where the company is researching alternative energy products to comply with the Louisiana Public Service Commission's renewable energy pilot.

"This will be our first large-scale solar project, and we are excited about the possibilities this joint effort could produce over its life," said George Bausewine, president and COO of Cleco Power. "This is a continuation of our efforts to evaluate the viability of renewable energy in Louisiana. We are pleased to work with Walmart to further our research."

The project consists of over 1,200 monocrystalline panels that have the capability of generating over 250 kW's peak AC. A typical residential home experiences an average annual peak load of 10 kW. However, total output will depend on the number of hours of sunlight in a day. Monocrystalline panels are considered to be the most efficient and most dependable solar technology.

"Walmart is committed to our long-term goal by finding more ways to implement and utilize renewable energy sources in our stores, clubs and distribution centers," said David Ozment, Walmart's director of Energy. "We are proud to have one of the first large-scale solar projects in Louisiana and believe it will pave the way for solar expansion in the state."