Inovateus Solar, a worldwide installer of commercial and industrial solar power systems (and No. 29 on Solar Power World’s Top 250 Solar Contractors list), installed the solar systems at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium to launch the first phase of the institution’s clean-energy initiative.
The solar firm was an integral part of an energy construction project headed by global energy management company Schneider Electric. The project consisted of the rooftop installation of 913 photovoltaic solar panels on top of the aquarium’s marine mammal pavilion.
In an event held on the roof of the Abbott Oceanarium in late 2013, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn was on hand to help Shedd staff unveil the 265-kilowatt project, which is the largest solar installation on any cultural institution in the state of Illinois. The project was funded through a public and private partnership.
Inovateus Solar was commissioned to provide their expertise in this historic undertaking in September of 2013. Inovateus Solar is a licensed general contractor in Chicago.
J. Ranck was the electrical contractor for the project. Schletter provided the racking systems used for the solar panels in conjunction with their Anchor Product line.
The new solar energy system will help power life-support equipment to the aquarium’s Great Lakes gallery, which showcases the region’s diverse native animals including iconic lake sturgeon in a new touch pool exhibit. In addition to reducing costs and enhancing the building’s energy reserve and various life support systems, the system supports Shedd’s Great Lakes initiative to protect and preserve the lakes by reducing its reliance on traditional energy sources.
Chris158 says
It’s encouraging to see solar technology being incorporated structural design. This will ensure more and more mainstream acceptance as a viable power source.