Clean Energy Meets World-Class Thrills: D3Energy Deploys Massive Solar Array at Epic Universe
The Universal Epic Universe solar system uses 3.7 MW of clean power to charge electric buses overnight, helping it earn LEED Platinum status.
Universal Orlando Resort continues to set new benchmarks in theme park innovation, not just through immersive storytelling and thrilling attractions, but through groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. D3Energy, a leading U.S. floating solar developer and EPC contractor, has officially announced the successful deployment of a 1.4 MW floating photovoltaic (FPV) system at Universal Epic Universe. Energized earlier this year, this installation operates as a vital pillar of the park’s overall renewable energy matrix, further solidifying Epic Universe as a modern standard for eco-conscious development.
Universal Epic Universe Solar Power: A 3.7 MW Clean Energy Program Managed by Qcells
The 1.4 MW floating solar array is one of three on-site solar installations that together deliver a massive 3.7 MW capacity across Epic Universe. The overarching solar program was managed by clean energy leader Qcells, with D3Energy executing the specialized floating solar component.
According to Universal, these combined solar installations are projected to generate over 6.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, an amount equivalent to powering more than 900 homes. Thanks largely to these proactive infrastructure investments, Epic Universe has made history as the first theme park to achieve LEED Platinum certification under LEED for Communities: Plan and Design.
How Sun Power Drives Universal’s Transportation Network
Beyond generating clean power, the floating solar array creates a seamless loop connecting renewable energy generation, battery storage, and zero-emission transit.
- Daytime Generation: The floating photovoltaic panels harvest sunlight while floating on water infrastructure, eliminating the need to take up valuable land footprint.
- Energy Storage: Generated electricity is stored in high-capacity battery systems during peak daylight hours.
- Nighttime Fleet Charging: The stored power is used overnight to charge Universal’s fleet of electric buses that transport guests throughout the resort campus.
This system offers a real-world blueprint for how multiple clean-energy technologies can coalesce into a resilient corporate energy strategy.
Universal Epic Universe Solar Power: Continuing a Powerful Partnership
This project marks D3Energy’s second floating solar installation for Universal Orlando Resort. Their initial project was completed at Universal’s main Orlando campus in 2021. Both deployments utilize Ciel & Terre’s Hydrelio technology, bringing a uniform, proven floating platform across two Universal Orlando properties.
“We’re proud to continue our relationship with Universal Orlando through a second floating solar project,” said Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy. “Universal continues to lead the way in sustainability across the theme park industry, and it’s exciting to see floating solar integrated into one of the most innovative destinations in the world.”
“We also appreciate Qcells’ leadership in managing the overall solar program and the opportunity to deliver the floating solar component alongside their team,” Tchividjian added.
As theme parks look toward future expansion, floating solar demonstrates how resorts can maximize existing body-of-water infrastructure to produce clean power without sacrificing land required for guest experiences, park rides, or resort hotels.
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- Looking ahead to upcoming resort festivities? Mark your calendars with the official Universal Mardi Gras 2027 Dates.
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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