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    Community Solar to Light Up and Lighten Electric Bills at Cincinnati Zoo

    Oct. 30, 2024
    The system integrated nearly 5,000 bifacial modules connected through string inverter technology. The carport will provide shade for about 800 vehicles as it reduces 1,775 tons of CO2 emissions.
    Aerial view of rooftop solar at Cincinnati Zoo and carport. Image credit TerraSmart
    Aerial view of rooftop solar at Cincinnati Zoo and carport. Image credit TerraSmart

    Terrasmart and construction firm Melink Solar have announced the completion of a 2.8 MW solar carport at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in Ohio.

    While Terrasmart has designed and manufactured the photovoltaic (PV) parking canopy’s racking system, the mechanical installation was performed in partnership with Melink Solar. With this solar carport, the Zoo's 4.55 MWs total of on-site solar capacity meets two-thirds of its power requirements and supports its goal to be net zero by 2025.

    The system integrated nearly 5,000 bifacial modules connected through string inverter technology. The carport will provide shade for about 800 vehicles as it reduces 1,775 tons of CO2 emissions.

    According to zoo officials, the solar systems collectively will reduce the facility's annual power bill to around $300,000 by 2030 to 2032, down from $1.6 million in 2005.

    The Cincinnati Zoo also has financed an additional 165 kW of solar panels through its Community Solar Resiliency Program to support smaller installations at local churches, community centers, and schools.

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