SEBASTIAN – Florida Power & Light Co. has identified Sebastian to set up solar panels in parks that would act as shade coverings while generating power for the electric grid.
The program is called SolarNow, which provides innovative solar panels that could be installed in local parks, recreational facilities and the city hall parking lot in Sebastian.
“We are considering a partnership with FPL on some solar shades and solar trees in several areas,” Councilman Jim Hill told Sebastian Daily.
Hill said that any project must have council approval and be done at no cost to the city.
Also, the city would receive power credits from FPL saving tax payer dollars.
Hill also said the solar panels would need to provide a benefit to anywhere they are installed through shade or aesthetic improvements.
In Stuart, FPL is already building solar canopies in the parking area of the Kiwanis Park that produces about 180 kilowatts of electricity into the grid.
FPL has identified the Sebastian Splash Pad and the bleachers at the Veterans Memorial as good spots for solar canopies because they would provide shade for visitors.
For the city’s dog park on Keen Terrace, FPL is considering “solar trees” that could be installed so visitors could charge their phones and other devices.
So far, City Council members are receptive to the program.
