Tuesday, August 6, 2024
reading time: 3 minutes
A large solar farm is planned for Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP), a prestigious sports club in Dawsonville known for its F1-style track and exciting kart track.
Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP), located in Dawsonville, Georgia, is furthering its commitment to sustainability by installing a solar power system consisting of 747 panels, each generating 480 watts, for a total capacity of 358 kW. This system will produce enough energy to power approximately 300 homes. This initiative follows AMP’s recent green efforts, which include the addition of 10 Level 3 DC chargers, 8 Level 2 EV chargers, full LED lighting, solar-powered security cameras/signs, on-site water and wastewater treatment, and energy-efficient fixtures, further underscoring the park’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The solar installation will provide about 60 percent of the campus’ daily operational energy needs from clean, renewable energy. Initially, it will connect to five buildings, including the karting facilities and the new Sky Deck for members in the park.
The solar power system is provided by Hannah Solar, an Atlanta-based company known for its expertise in solar installation and maintenance.
In a move to support local businesses, Hannah Solar has supplied solar panels to the Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) from Hanwha Q. Cells, manufactured at its facility in Dalton, Georgia. The solar array also uses SolarEdge inverters and racking hardware provided by Ironridge and Panelclaw.
This system represents a significant investment in AMP’s journey towards greater self-sustainability. Once operational, the solar system will help reduce the pressure on the local power grid while covering more than half of AMP’s energy needs, significantly offsetting its environmental footprint.
The facility is expected to generate 450,300 kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, offsetting 7,312 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over 30 years. According to EPA estimates, this reduction is equivalent to removing more than 16.6 million miles of vehicle travel from the road or planting 109,600 trees.
CEO of AMP Jeremy Porter Amicalola EMC’s CEO was upbeat about the announcement. “Being able to generate more than half of our energy needs through solar brings us closer to our vision of making the AMP campus a self-sustainable community and resort. We are excited to be able to reduce the strain on the local grid while making a significant positive environmental impact. This solar development at Atlanta Motorsports Park is the largest solar farm in its energy district,” Amicalola EMC’s CEO shared.
With guidance from consultants at Hana Solar, the project was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which covered 50% of the total costs.
Porter highlighted the invaluable expertise and support provided by Hana Solar throughout the research, planning, design and installation phases. AMP’s solar power production will also benefit from ongoing maintenance support from Hana Solar, ensuring long-term efficiency and sustainability.
Speaking about the project, Hannah Solar, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, said: Joseph Waybright “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMP) to implement a state-of-the-art solar power system,” said Hanna Solar. “Jeremy and the AMP team are committed to reducing their carbon footprint through solar and other efficiency technologies, demonstrating the effectiveness of renewable energy in an energy-intensive environment such as a racetrack.”
Waybright He also highlighted the link between AMP’s solar upgrade and its commitment to electric vehicles. “They can now proudly offer solar charging at several of the stations on site,” enhancing the low-carbon cycle while taking advantage of Georgia’s abundant sunshine to support the passionate motorsports community as it transitions to the electric vehicle era.
“The Hannah Solar team looks forward to continuing their partnership with AMP as they work to push boundaries and change the perception of the racing industry.” Waybright concluded his speech.
AMP plans to begin generating solar power once installation and set-up are complete in Q3 2024. The launch of the solar system will coincide with the addition of lighting to the karting track, allowing karting events and races to extend into the evening. With the recent addition of CirCuit residential villas and apartments, along with upgrades to member amenities, AMP is also positioning itself as a weekend or holiday destination for motorsports enthusiasts.
By increasing its energy independence and reducing its environmental impact, the park is making great strides to ensure that motorsports can be enjoyed sustainably by its members, event participants and everyday visitors. This initiative not only honors the rich history of motorsports, but also embraces a future that is brighter than ever.
