New solar panel system at aquarium

PINE KNOLL SHORES — The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is putting its energy conservation efforts on display.

A new solar panel system near the aquarium entrance silently harnesses the power of the sun.

The residential-scale solar panels meet a small percentage of the facility’s power needs with an environmentally friendly energy source. The panels, placed at the front of the building so visitors can see them at close range, are also an educational exhibit, the aquarium announced.

“The system is a visible and functional representation of the Aquarium’s commitment to conservation and education,” said Pat McNeese, the Aquarium’s Conservation and Research Coordinator.

The Aquarium is one of the first public facilities in Carteret County to use the “green” energy source, also known as a solar photovoltaic system, according to Lisa Galizia of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative. The electric cooperative donated the panels to the aquarium after the passage of the state’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard last year.

“The standard requires electric utilities to meet a percentage of their energy needs through renewable energy and energy efficiency resources,” Galizia said. “As we work to meet the state standard, we also want to educate our members about these renewable options.”

Links from the Aquarium’s Web site and the CCEC Web site show the amount of solar energy being collected each day. The monitor also provides cumulative totals, and a scorecard of reduced emissions.