In 1979, Wells Fargo opened its first solar-powered branch in Culver City, Calif.  The novel project underscored the company's expanding involvement in solar energy. At the time, solar air conditioning  systems were unique—and way more expensive than solar heating  systems. Wells Fargo's Culver City office was the first financial institution in Southern California to use this novel cooling technique.

The Alten Co.  designed and engineered the solar energy system for the building. The drive-up canopy was topped with 840 square feet of solar collectors to provide energy to heat or cool the building. Customers and other curious people were able to see how the system functioned by peering through a glass wall inside the lobby.

Customers were able to do their banking outside at the two walk-up windows and three drive-up windows. Looking back, walk-up seems the most natural solar way to do business, especially in sunny Southern California. On the other hand, doing drive-up business at a solar-powered building is totally contradictory. But hey, it was the innocent '70s! 

Click here to learn more about Wells Fargo's commitment to improving the environment.