Six Flags to fuel Discovery Kingdom and Magic Mountain with solar power

Guests at the Discovery Kingdom and Magic Mountain amusement parks in California can soon ride on sunshine while keeping their cars cool, because Six Flags has announced plans to cover their parking lots with solar power panels.

As first reported by BusinessWire, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation in partnership with JLL, a global professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management, has announced a new initiative to power two more of its parks — Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, California and Six Flags Magic Mountain, near Los Angeles — almost entirely with solar power. This follows previously announced plans to generate solar power at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey.

“We are committed to making all of our properties more energy efficient and sustainable for years to come,” said Six Flags Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer, Steve Purtell. “California’s support of renewable energy, the solar potential in the state, and the environmental benefits associated with solar energy made this the right decision for our guests, our team members, and our communities.”

JLL will select a renewable energy independent power producer to build, own and operate the systems in California. Once completed, the solar system at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom will exceed 7 megawatts of electricity generated. Six Flags Magic Mountain’s system will have capacity for nearly 15 megawatts and will be the largest solar carport anywhere in North America.

“From the onset, JLL worked with Six Flags to identify the benefits of implementing this renewable energy purchasing strategy and hosting the projects on-property,” said Blake Lacher, Managing Director, JLL Capital Markets, Americas. “Bringing all of the partners together early on in the process allowed for greater transparency in ensuring the objectives were clearly identified. Timely and clear communication with stakeholders and decision-makers on all sides was imperative to reach this milestone.”

“This unprecedented solar PV program exemplifies the multiple benefits a well-designed onsite solar project may offer,” said Kyle Goehring, Vice President and Director of Clean Energy for JLL. “The solar economic benefits at these sites is immense, and JLL is honored to help Six Flags become the entertainment industry market leader in renewable energy.”

In addition to generating a large percentage of the parks’ electricity, the solar carport structures will provide covered parking for the majority of parking spaces; integrated electric vehicle charging stations; increased security through new closed circuit cameras; and enhanced parking lot surfaces.

“Six Flags has pioneered a long lists of firsts in its 57-year history and as good stewards of the environment, we are excited to apply the latest green technology and create eco-friendly parks for future generations to enjoy,” added Purtell.

For more information about Six Flags parks, visit sixflags.com and watch these videos: