Asian-food fans may be aware of the fact that Kikkoman Foods is the nation's largest producer of soy sauce. This week, though, the company is making news for something else.

Kikkoman announced that it was installing a solar array at its production plant in Folsom, California. Solar power will help the company reduce its energy outlays - and it's one of the most environmentally friendly energy sources available.

That's important to Kikkoman, which has long held environmental responsibility in high esteem. "Along with our parent company in Japan, Kikkoman Foods, Inc. is committed to reducing its impact on the environment," company president Kazuo Shimizu said.

The food company's Folsom, California solar installation comprises 107 kilowatts of solar panels - enough to produce more than 150,000 kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year.

The installation will help make a positive impact in California, a state with some of the strictest renewable portfolio standards in the country. California also hopes to reduce its carbon emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 - and solar power systems like Kikkoman's will contribute to that goal.