Universal theme park thrills powered by floating solar project
A 1.4-MW floating solar array at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park in Orlando is now operational, part of a 3.7-MW solar program managed by Qcells and delivered by D3Energy using Ciel & Terre’s Hydrelio technology.
D3Energy, a U.S. floating solar developer and engineering, procurement and construction contractor, has energized a 1.4-megawatt floating solar photovoltaic system at Universal Epic Universe, a new theme park in Orlando, Florida. The project was completed earlier this year and now operates as part of the park’s broader renewable energy initiative. The floating array is one of three solar installations totaling 3.7 megawatts across the Epic Universe site.
The overall solar program at Epic Universe was managed by Qcells, while D3Energy handled the floating solar component. Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy, highlighted the company’s ongoing partnership with Universal Orlando and praised the theme park’s leadership in sustainability. He also acknowledged Qcells’ role in coordinating the broader solar effort.
Epic Universe has achieved LEED Platinum certification under LEED for Communities: Plan and Design, making it the first theme park to receive this designation. The floating solar array supplies power to the park’s electric bus fleet, with energy stored in batteries during daylight hours and used to charge the buses overnight.
The project marks D3Energy’s second floating solar installation for Universal Orlando Resort, following a system completed at the resort’s main Orlando campus in 2021. Both projects utilize Ciel & Terre’s Hydrelio floating solar technology, which supports the integration of renewable energy into large-scale entertainment venues.