Charles Paddock Zoo Adds Solar Energy System

Charles Paddock Zoo Adds Solar Energy System
Media Contact:
Frank Scotti
Solarponics, Inc.
805-466-5595
frank@solarponics.com
http://www.solarponics.com
The solar energy system was donated and installed last summer by local solar installer,
Solarponics.
Atascadero, CA, USA -- The Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero adds solar energy system as part of
their ongoing conservation mission. They join other zoo's including; Cincinnati Zoo, Toledo Zoo, Knoxville
Zoo, Saint Louis Zoo, Oakland Zoo, and San Diego Zoo, who have made a similar move to renewable
energy.
The solar energy system was donated and installed last summer by local solar installer, Solarponics. The
starter solar energy system produces about 5% of the zoo's total energy demand and will save the zoo
more than $75,000 over the life of the system. The ultimate goal is to install a solar array large enough to
supply 100% of the zoo's energy needs, saving hundred's of thousands of dollars, savings that will go
directly to the conservation and care of the zoo's residents.
"We are excited about the future of our Zoo, adding solar, and upgrading our facilities to better manage the
animal collection and enhance the experience for our zoo visitors," said Alan Baker, zoo executive director.
"We are dedicated to the conservation of local and exotic species in everything we do, including our entire
energy and environmental footprint."
Globally, the burning of fossil fuels releases carbon and other pollutants into the air, which directly

contribute to climate change. It is these changes to our climate that are destroying critical wildlife habitat,
causing habitat ranges to shift, increasing incidence of pests and invasive species, and decreasing
availability of food and water. A failure to take decisive action now to reduce carbon pollution will affect onethird
of all wildlife species facing increased risk of extinction within the next century.
The good news is the zoo is taking action to advance clean energy solutions that will protect wildlife and
reduce their environmental impact.
"It was a great fit for us to be able to donate the starter system to the zoo. The donation supports our local
community, builds solar awareness, and fits with the zoo's conservation goals", said Kristian Emrich,
Solarponics Vice President.
Visitors are invited to Party For The Planet on Saturday, April 13 to check out the new solar energy system
on the roof of the zoo's gift shop, and learn about conservation programs happening at the zoo and
throughout the central coast. Doors open at 10:00 AM.
About The Charles Paddock Zoo
The Charles Paddock Zoo was established in 1955 by Charles Paddock, a county parks ranger, who
nursed animals back to health. Today the zoo is home to hundreds of local and exotic species from around
the world. Many of the zoo residents are part of globally managed programs to preserve animals and their
habitats. The zoo is located on five wooded acres, and is family friendly with the opportunity for children
and adults to experience animals up close. The Charles Paddock Zoo is accredited by the American Zoo
and Aquarium Association, placing them in an elite group of only 220 accredited institutions in North
America. For hours, admission prices, events, visit http://www.charlespaddockzoo.org.
About Solarponics
Solarponics was founded in 1975 by Cal Poly engineering graduate, Mike Emrich, and is the oldest
continuously operating solar energy company in California. Today, Solarponics installs solar electric, battery
backup, EV charging systems, radiant heating & cooling, solar pool heating, water conservation and LED
Commercial lighting for residential and commercial projects on the central coast. Their vision for the central
coast is for every building to have a net-zero energy and resource consumption footprint. Visit
http://www.solarponics.com or call (805) 466-5595 for more information.