On Wednesday in New Jersey, the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America said that its New Jersey park, Six Flags Great Adventure, is now powered by solar energy.
KDC Solar built and will operate the 23.5-megawatt solar, which ranks as New Jersey’s largest net metered solar project and distinguishes Six Flags Great Adventure as one of the world’s first solar-powered theme parks, according to the companies.
Key features of the solar project include:
- 11 MW of solar carports over three sprawling parking lots;
- 12.5 MW on 40 acres of ground-mounted solar panels;
- Net metering system that allows Six Flags to generate its own clean energy and export power into the grid to serve nearby homes and businesses;
“This is a thrilling day for our company. This project represents a giant step toward becoming a net-zero carbon facility,” said Six Flags Great Adventure Park President John Winkler.
“Clean energy is right for the environment and our future, and we look forward to decades of environmental stewardship with our partner, KDC Solar.”
As conservationists for 45 years, Six Flags Great Adventure has cared for more than 70 different species of animals, including some that are endangered and even extinct in the wild.
The Jackson theme park recycles more than 60 percent of its annual waste, including manure, paper, plastic, wood and mixed garbage. In addition, it has been converting to recycled furniture products, such as tables and park benches comprised of recycled plastic. The theme park eliminated the use of paper towels in favor of energy-efficient hand dryers and is firmly committed to other energy-saving programs.
To watch drone footage of the project, play the video below:
