Terrasmart and Melink Solar have successfully completed the installation of an innovative solar carport at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden . With a capacity of 2.8 megawatts (MW), this structure has become the largest publicly accessible urban solar energy system in the US, allowing the zoo to cover two-thirds of its energy needs with clean energy .
About solar carport
The new solar carport in the zoo’s parking lot, designed and manufactured by Terrasmart in collaboration with Melink Solar, provides shade for 800 vehicles and eliminates approximately 1,775 tons of CO₂ emissions per year . This project is part of the zoo’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2025 , an ambitious goal that also reduces its annual energy bill to nearly $300,000, down from $1.6 million in 2005.
It is also equipped with nearly 5,000 bifacial panels connected to string inverter technology, which optimizes power generation and distribution in the available space. According to Mark Fisher, the zoo’s vice president of Facilities and Sustainability, this new facility is twice as efficient at generating power as the first solar structure installed in 2006.
In a further effort to support the community, the zoo has funded the installation of 165 kW of solar panels at local churches, schools and community centers. This initiative, known as the Community Solar Resilience Program, seeks to foster energy self-sufficiency in the area and alleviate energy poverty.
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Source and photo: Terrasmart
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