Solar Power for Parks
www.parkworld-online.com
Installing solar energy at your park is simpler than you think
Katherine Lillydahl, Senior Account Executive - Developer Network at DSD Renewables looks at how operators can better capitalise on nature's big yellow battery.
T
housands of cars sit in long rows at amusement parks across the country, parked for hours beneath the summer sun while
nearby rides rumble and whirl. That's the rhythm seasonal demand, and heavy energy use. It's also what makes solar power such a prudent decision to install at these sites. Yet, even as electricity rates climb, many
operators still haven't capitalised on the value that solar can provide. The solar industry faces a significant challenge
after the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). As it has done in the past, the solar industry will navigate and adapt to the challenges of our new reality. In the right markets, solar remains a practical, cost-effective solution that properties have parking lots or undeveloped land suitable for solar arrays. Carports, in particular, make practical sense because they don't compete parking, cooler vehicles, and even the potential for EV charging. That kind of setup makes installing solar power
easier than you think. Construction, timing, they're manageable like other infrastructure improvements on the site. Systems can be designed schedule. The process requires planning, but solar industry professionals are familiar with the close coordination required to make these projects successful. Other amusement park operators are already
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the park's energy usage. Impressive projects like these are being driven
by the economics. Electricity rates are projected year, creating pressure on operating costs. Solar installations provide long-term cost predictability and insulation from rate volatility because energy years. But the impact isn't limited to your bottom line.
A well-designed system is visible, supports your sustainability goals, and strengthens your ESG
property and your priorities. If carports aren't feasible, ground mounts work well on undeveloped also possible, though they'll likely generate minimal impact unless you have large buildings on your property. To further optimise your energy efficiency,
consider adding battery storage systems. They year-round. Stored power can be shifted to late- day demand periods or held for winter events. In some markets, batteries also unlock additional
incentives or savings. Getting the design right is only one part of
your internal team is aligned on objectives and timing before any serious planning begins: Are Those decisions will shape system design and financing structure. Once your goals are clear, you want to find a
improve project economics.
start of construction. That timeline accounts for along the way. Once construction is underway, it won't interfere
carport, developers can install panels in one area of the parking lot, reopen it for guest use, then running smoothly until your project is finished and operational. There's no one way to bring solar to an
amusement park. However, with a clear plan, it's a project you can manage on your terms. You just need to make better use of the space and sunlight you already have.
SUMMER PART TWO 2025
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