Solar energy has come to downtown Green Bay park

From an article by Scott Cooper Williams in the Green Bay Press-Gazette:

. . . City and industry leaders Tuesday dedicated two solar energy panels designed to educate the public about the alternative energy source.

The square, flat panels erected at Leicht Memorial Park could generate enough electricity to light up the city-owned park — or two average-sized homes.

Mayor Jim Schmitt said he hopes adults and children will visit the downtown park to see solar energy in action and consider its usefulness.

Partnering on the project with Wisconsin Public Service Corp. also demonstrates the city's commitment to sustainable government services, Schmitt said.

"It just shows where Green Bay is going," the mayor said during dedication ceremonies Tuesday at the riverfront park.

WPS officials earlier this year approached the city about a solar energy installation on city property. After some discussion, the two sides agreed that downtown was the best place to enhance public understanding about it.

The utility company spent about $32,000 to install 20-foot-tall panels that will rotate to follow the sun's movements.

Company officials called it the first use of solar energy in downtown Green Bay.