Melink Solar has completed the construction of a solar array at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in Ohio. The 2.8 MW solar powered parking shed project utilizes the Terrasmart shelving system, with assistance from Gibraltar Industries for mechanical installation.

Seth Parker, CEO of Melink Solar, said, "Executing this project for Cincinnati Zoo is highly aligned with our mission to create sustainable development for our customers. We are honored to support the zoo's commitment to environmental management and proud to collaborate with all of our partners on this project

The system integrates nearly 5000 double-sided components connected through string inverter technology. The new garage will provide shade for approximately 800 cars. According to zoo officials, the zoo currently has 4.55 megawatts of on-site solar energy, and by 2030-2032, the collective investment portfolio will reduce the facility's annual electricity bill from $1.6 million in 2005 to around $300000.

Mark Fisher, Vice President of Facilities, Planning, and Sustainability at Cincinnati Zoo and Sustainable Development Department, said, "Since we installed the first solar array in the zoo's educational building in 2006, solar technology and our understanding of how to use it have made tremendous progress. This new array is a great example. It takes up less physical space, but generates almost twice as much electricity as the current array. Now, two-thirds of the zoo's electricity demand will come from our parking lot

To help alleviate energy poverty in nearby areas, the zoo also funds an additional 165 kW of solar panels through its Community Solar Resilience Program to support small facilities in local churches, community centers, and schools.

Completing this milestone project for the Cincinnati Zoo is a significant achievement for everyone at Terrasmart, "said Yuri Reznikov, Chief Sales Officer of Terrasmart." Not only did we deliver the canopy solution on time and within budget, but we are also excited about the meaningful impact this project will have on the zoo and its neighboring communities