SeaWorld San Antonio Installs State-of-the-Art Solar Parking Lot Canopy

SeaWorld San Antonio is making significant progress towards a more sustainable future with the installation of a groundbreaking solar parking lot canopy. This state-of-the-art system not only provides shade to visitors during extreme heat but also generates a remarkable 16% of the park’s electricity consumption. The project sets a new standard for solar energy integration within the amusement park industry.

The solar canopy, boasting a capacity of 4.3 megawatts, is the largest in the SeaWorld system to date. Located in the VIP section of SeaWorld San Antonio’s parking lot, it will shade approximately 1,200 parking spots. The integration of solar panels into the canopy will significantly reduce SeaWorld’s carbon footprint, equivalent to 28,000,000 pounds of coal burned in a year, 5,500 cars driven in one year, and the annual energy use of 3,000 homes.

SeaWorld San Antonio’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through this investment in renewable energy. The park aims to inspire and educate guests about animals and conservation, and the sight of the solar panel carport upon arrival will reinforce the importance of renewable energy.

This project is part of SeaWorld’s ongoing conservation initiatives. In 2019, the park opened Turtle Reef, a habitat for endangered sea turtles featuring a unique filtration system that uses a manmade marsh wetland. Other sustainability efforts include rainwater collection, energy-efficient lighting systems, and water recycling.

SeaWorld San Antonio has partnered with Pivot Energy, the manufacturer of the solar panel system, to bring this ambitious project to life. Construction has already begun, and the final phase is expected to be completed by April of next year. Once energized in August 2024, the solar canopy will harness the abundant Texas sunshine to generate clean, renewable energy.

SeaWorld continues to lead the way in marine life conservation, offering fun and educational experiences to millions of guests each year. With a focus on science, education, and exceptional animal care, SeaWorld is dedicated to advancing the conservation of marine life both within and outside its parks.