Walt Disney World Resort has announced that it is partnering with solar project developer Origis Energy USA to develop a new 50 megawatt (MW) that will power two of its four theme parks in Central Florida.
This move is “the next milestone in Disney’s continued commitment to environmental stewardship.” In addition to The Walt Disney Company’s target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2020, the new solar project will join Disney’s infamous Mickey ears-shaped 5 MW solar project which was unveiled in April of 2016.
The new solar project will be built on 270 acres located near to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and include half a million solar panels. Disney expects that the new project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 57,000 tonnes per year — the equivalent of removing 9,300 cars from the roads.
Disney expects the two projects will generate enough renewable electricity to supply up to 25% of the power needs at World Disney World Resort.
This new 50 MW solar farm will also explore ways to make it pollinator friendly, thus creating a safe and welcoming habitat for butterflies, bees and other insects, including endangered and at-risk species.