Sunshine will play double duty at a Reliant-donated, 2,340 square-foot splash pad play area that opened today in Houston’s Fifth Ward. Families and solar panels will soak up the rays, resulting in a community project intended to drench and delight local families and kids. The park will be open annually from May through September and free to anyone who wants to cool off and have fun.
“This project represents both Reliant’s commitment to being involved in local projects that benefit our communities as well as our continued passion for innovative energy education,” Reliant President Elizabeth Killinger said. “As a parent myself, there’s nothing more precious than seeing a child’s eyes light up as science comes alive when they experience it. I hope families from Houston’s Fifth Ward and surrounding neighborhoods start splashing and learning about solar energy at this new park.”
The water park is located on the 3700 block of Lyons Avenue and features 18 solar panels expected to generate approximately 6,600 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The generated power is planned to offset electricity used by the splash pad. It’s eco-conscious and educational, with on-site learning modules about renewable energy.
Reliant’s splash pad donation contributes to the ongoing rejuvenation work led by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (CRC). Founded in April 1989 by residents, business owners, ministers, educators and civic leaders, the Fifth Ward CRC works to make the community a better place to live, work and play. The new park includes shaded picnic tables and benches, and a water percolation system to keep clean water flowing.
“The splash pad is a wet and wonderful gift from Reliant that showcases strength that can come from business and community partnerships,” said Kathy Payton, president of the Fifth Ward CRC. “The sustainable energy information helps make our neighborhood not only a fun gathering place, but also a real-world example to teach about science and our environment.”
— Solar Builder magazine
[source: http://www.solarbuildermag.com/news/reliants-houston-solar-powered-splash-park-new-open/]
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