How are Florida Theme Parks Managing Sweltering Summers? The Answer, Sustainable Solar Energy (SSE).

In the summer months, the average temperatures in Orlando from June through September sit at an average 80 degrees. However, there are times when those temperatures can swell to near 100 degrees! It was only in 2022 where the highest temperature since 1888 was recorded at it’s highest numbers. With that said, how do Florida theme parks manage these brutal summers? The answer, Sustainable Solar Energy (SSE).

When it comes to summer heat, or even a heat crisis, there are numbers of challenges that can go wrong. From health concerns, to mechanical issues, the heat plays a major part in everyday business and personal lives. So, how does Disney, Bush Gardens and Universal Studios fare during these hot summer months? The answer may surprise you.

With solar and clean energy, Universal uses the sun to help offset energy consumption. In 2021 Universal Orlando Resort constructed a floating solar system in both it’s Orlando and Los Angeles office campuses and theme parks. They also implemented electric trams to help get you from point A to point B. Regarding energy efficiency, Universal Orlando Resort has implemented solar powered, LED lighting fixtures, and installed solar roofing on all of its HVAC mechanical buildings to reduce solar heat-loads.

Walt Disney World, known for it’s magic and charming esthetic, holds its own challenges of keeping up with modern technical times. Walt Disney World Orlando welcomes an average of 58 million visitors per year. With constantly running machinery, rides, HVAC systems, water filtration systems, and more. How do you manage to stay open for your millions of fans, while conserving energy?

The, Walt Disney World Resort of Florida is now operating on 40% of sun-powered energy. While partnering up with two prominent solar development companies in Florida, Disney has constructed a 1,000-acre solar farm located in Gilchrist and Polk counties. According to Disney, the 500,000 solar panels installed are equivalent to removing “29,500 automobiles from the road every year”. – Disney Planet Possible.

Disneyland Paris has also implemented their own solar initiatives, by installing one of the largest solar canopy projects in all of Europe.

John Caravella, Esq

The author, John Caravella Esq., is a construction attorney and formerly practicing project architect at The Law Office of John Caravella, P.C., representing architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and owners in all phases of contract preparation, litigation, and arbitration across New York and Florida. He also serves as an arbitrator to the American Arbitration Association Construction Industry Panel. Mr. Caravella can be reached by email: [email protected] or (631) 608-1346.