C2 Energy Capital, an investor and developer in renewable energy and storage assets, worked closely with the City of St. Paul, Minnesota, to bring solar energy to the popular Como Park Zoo & Conservatory via a community solar subscription. The clean energy will reduce electricity costs for the zoo’s operations. The solar installation owned by C2 Energy Capital is part of three community solar projects that total just over four megawatts.
“The City of St. Paul is innovative and forward-thinking in its efforts to maximize energy efficiency. We commend their commitment to residents and their support of the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Endeavors such as this help the facility remain one of only a few zoos in the United States that offers free admission,” said Candice Michalowicz, co-founder and managing member of C2 Energy Capital.
“Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is another great example of our commitment to save taxpayer funds through lower energy costs and reduce emissions,” said Mayor Melvin Carter.
“Through programs such as Race to Reduce and the American Cities Climate Challenge from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the City of St. Paul has taken decisive action to support a healthy environment,” said Amy Brendmoen, president of the St. Paul City Council. “C2 Energy Capital set a standard of excellence we have come to expect for its exceptional collaboration and detailed execution to achieve completion of these quality solar power generation plants.”
“Conservation goes to the core of what Como is all about,” said Michelle Furrer, director of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “We are a nationwide leader in animal and plant conservation, and by reducing the City’s overall greenhouse gas emissions we are taking another step in environmental stewardship.”
This solar project is contributing to Minnesota’s Solar Energy Standard and requires Xcel Energy to obtain 25% of its retail sales from renewable sources by 2025.
