Six Flags Magic Mountain energizes California’s new largest carport
Six Flags Magic Mountain has fully energized the carport project over its parking lot, marking the start of National Energy Awareness Month, the theme park company announced Oct. 1.
Developed in conjunction with Glendale, California-based Solar Optimum, the project is the largest solar carport installation in the state of California. At 12.37 MW, the site’s wattage makes it one of the largest projects of its kind in the country, and “represents a major milestone in Six Flags’ commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.”
“This is a transformative moment for Six Flags Magic Mountain and our sustainability journey,” says Brian Oerding, park president of Six Flags Magic Mountain. “By investing in renewable energy, we’re taking meaningful action to reduce our environmental impact while helping build a more sustainable future for our guests, team members and community.
“This project demonstrates what’s possible when organizations commit to innovation and responsible environmental stewardship.”
The combined Six Flags and Solar Optimum team designed the project to offset 100% of the annual electricity consumption of both Six Flags Magic Mountain and the neighboring Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles. The new installation aims to blaze a solar energy trail for other large-scale entertainment destinations, representatives say, showcasing how theme parks can significantly reduce their environmental footprint.
Finishing the vision
Six Flags officials say the project is the realization of a decade-long vision, and a collaboration between a number of parties in the Golden State. The team expects the site to deliver major environmental benefits, including eliminating more than 8,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions and conserving more than 10 million gallons of water every year.
On the electrical side, the company expects this new project to generate approximately 20.8 GWh of renewable energy each year. That production clip is equivalent to powering 2,874 homes on an annual basis, and the installation will also include a 2 MW / 8 MWh on-site battery system.
The carport designation of the project also provides further benefits, the companies say. The design provides sun coverage for 4,315 parking spaces to reduce vehicle heat buildup, and also offers 109 EV charging connectors across its guest and employee parking spaces.
“This system demonstrates how innovative renewable energy solutions can help organizations meet ambitious sustainability goals while delivering long-term environmental and economic benefits,” says Solar Optimum CEO Arno Aghamalian. “Together (with Six Flags), we’re creating a cleaner energy future for generations to come.”
The carport project also remains connected to the Southern California Edison grid, and will offset electricity, rather than operating as an isolated microgrid facility. The installation’s excess energy can be exported to the California grid through interconnection, or the park may use it during periods of high demand.
