Published August 29, 2024

New solar panels on the roof of the 2nd Street Market demonstrate use of renewable energy

Five Rivers MetroParks has installed a 131-panel solar array – among the largest in the City of Dayton – on the roof of the 2nd Street Market, marking a significant advancement in this downtown destination’s commitment to sustainability and to MetroParks’ commitment to climate change mitigation.

A green ribbon cutting will be held to mark the completion of this project.

When: Friday, Sept. 13 at 10 a.m.
Where: 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St.
What: All are welcome to attend the ribbon cutting, during which there will be remarks from MetroParks officials and an invitation to explore the permanent interpretive installation outside the Market.

The installation was completed in late July and made possible through a generous gift to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation from Mat and Cindi Heck.

“We are passionate about Five Rivers MetroParks and the environmental benefits of solar energy,” Cindi Heck said. “We’re excited about the incredible cost savings over time to help the 2nd Street Market, as well as the positive environmental impact and opportunity to educate the public about the benefits of solar energy. This type of sustainable energy, along with other alternative sources of power, are the way of the future for generation to come.”

The solar array significantly reduces the Market’s carbon footprint:

First, it’s anticipated to offset 46% of the building’s power consumption.
Second, it has the capacity to generate approximately 100,000 kWh of electricity annually.

This amount of clean, renewable energy can power nine average American homes for a year, reducing CO₂ emissions by roughly 89 metric tons. This is equivalent to removing approximately 19 gasoline-powered vehicles from the road annually, highlighting the project’s substantial environmental impact.

“We are deeply grateful to Mat and Cindi Heck for their visionary support of this important project, which represents MetroParks’ first solar project and a major next step in the agency’s conservation initiatives,” said Alexis Larsen, Five Rivers MetroParks’ chief of philanthropy. “Together, we are taking a critical step forward in our journey toward a more sustainable and resilient community.”

The solar panel installation increases the 2nd Street Market’s support of MetroParks’ conservation mission to protect the region’s natural heritage. The Market also provides the community access to fresh, local food, which is often healthier and less taxing on the environment. Additionally, shopping from local small businesses means food and products are transported shorter distances, further reducing the carbon footprint of shoppers. Renewable energy joins recycling and composting as ways in which the Market is committed to operating sustainably.

“Five Rivers MetroParks is proud to lead by example, demonstrating how local actions can contribute to global climate change mitigation goals,” MetroParks CEO Karen Hesser said. “This installation not only represents a stride toward energy independence, but it also serves as a tangible demonstration of the benefits of solar power, offering an educational opportunity for the public. It underscores the importance of renewable energy in achieving a sustainable future and complements the Market’s mission to provide the community with access to fresh, local food.”

The solar panels were installed by Appalachian Renewable Power (ARP Solar), which was awarded the project through a competitive bidding process.

“The Market’s newest ‘green’ upgrades are a great example of a project that would not have been possible without philanthropic support,” said Larsen.

This is the second large MetroParks project funded by Cindi and Mat Heck. In 2021 they funded updated seating and shade sails at the RiverScape River Run terrace.

To learn more about all the ways you can ensure safe amenities, trails and preservation of local greenspace – including ways to support the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation – visit metroparks.org/explore.