Archived Outdoors

Solar project finished in the Smokies

Completion of a solar energy project in the Cades Cove area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will result in an annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 23 tons and a $14,000 savings in annual fuel costs. 

The newly installed solar array includes 80 panels that provide a silent energy source to serve the small visitor center, bookstore and restroom facility in the Cable Mill area. The panels are located behind the restroom in an area that receives maximum exposure from morning and afternoon sun. A low berm planted with native vegetation circles the array to minimize its visual effect on the area’s historic landscape and natural beauty. 

“This is a great step in making our park operations more environmentally friendly,” said Park Superintendent Cassius Cash. “The solar panels will provide a great, natural source of energy for the Cable Mill Area that enables us to provide a better visitor experience and to be better stewards of the park.” 

The project was funded by the Southeast Region of the National Park Service, with work completed by Solar Power Integrators, a veteran-owned company. 

www.nps.gov/subjects/sustainability/be-energy-smart.htm.

Smokey Mountain News Logo
SUPPORT THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN NEWS AND
INDEPENDENT, AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM
Go to top
Payment Information

/

At our inception 20 years ago, we chose to be different. Unlike other news organizations, we made the decision to provide in-depth, regional reporting free to anyone who wanted access to it. We don’t plan to change that model. Support from our readers will help us maintain and strengthen the editorial independence that is crucial to our mission to help make Western North Carolina a better place to call home. If you are able, please support The Smoky Mountain News.

The Smoky Mountain News is a wholly private corporation. Reader contributions support the journalistic mission of SMN to remain independent. Your support of SMN does not constitute a charitable donation. If you have a question about contributing to SMN, please contact us.