Congratulations to the Cincinnati Zoo. The zoo, known as the second-oldest zoo in the US, has begun construction on a 1.56-megawatt solar array which is expected to be completed this spring. The zoo expects the solar project to provide about 20% of the park’s energy needs. As a result the array becomes the largest publicly accessible urban solar array in the United States.
The 6,400 panels installed on a metal canopy serve a dual purpose. Not only do they provide energy to help run the park, but they also provide shade to about 800 parking spaces at the Zoo’s Vine Street Lot. Perhaps more importantly is the educational impact the new solar parking canopy will have on the local community. The zoo plans an interactive kiosk that will explain how the system works and help educate visitors on the advantages of solar energy.
The solar project is just the latest in a series of energy saving initiatives by “America’s greenest zoo.” The zoo installed a 30-foot tall wind turbine in 2010 to provide energy for their ticketing and membership building. They also utilize a solar water heating system to provide warm water for their restrooms and pursue LEED certification on all construction projects.
The project’s developer is southwestern Ohio’s Melink Corp., who will own and operate the mega array through 2017. After that the zoo will have the option to buy the system.
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Wow, at 11 million it will take how long to recoup the cost?
Brillant use of 11 million dollars.
1.56 megawatts is that a measurement of electrical output or a way to measure the warm fuzzy feelings generated ?
Perhaps the polar bears would like a hot shower every once in a while!