News article
Kansas City Current taps solar energy for new stadium
Kansas City Current has partnered with Good Energy Solutions to install new solar panels at CPKC Stadium.
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) outfit was founded as an expansion team in 2021, and is planning to move into the new stadium next year.
With the aim of achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification, the partnership will see the installation of 180 REC Alpha Pure-R solar panels on top of the main gate entrance and the team store.
According to a recent study by Solar Energy Industries Association, power generated each year by the NSWL’s facilities equates to enough energy to charge 150 million smartphones.
“Installing these solar panels is a perfect way to demonstrate leadership in a more sustainable future, while also enhancing the fan experience. This next step in designing a highly energy efficient stadium by providing on-site solar power is a key component in our efforts to achieve LEED Gold Certification,” said Scott Jenkins, KC Current Vice-President of Facility Development.
The solar energy array will produce roughly 100,000 kilowatt hours of energy annually, which is roughly equivalent to burning 70,000 pounds of coal.
“Installing these solar panels is a perfect way to demonstrate leadership in a more sustainable future, while also enhancing the fan experience."
Malcolm Proudfit, chief executive of Good Energy Solutions, added: “The KC Current has bold vision and goals for their team, as well as their facilities. The team wanted an energy partner focused on quality, which they found in Good Energy Solutions, and this top-tier solar system will play a key role in working towards LEED Gold Certification for the Stadium facility.”
The 11,500-seat CPKC Stadium is slated to open at the start of the 2024 NWSL season, and will be the first venue built specifically for a women’s soccer franchise.
Image: Zbynek Burival on Unsplash