Elmwood Park Zoo Solar Safari

Solar States, Philadelphia’s leading local solar EPC firm, will host the Elmwood Park Zoo Solar Safari at Elmwood Park Zoo on Friday, August 22 at 10:00 AM to unveil a new 250 kW rooftop solar array powering the Zoo’s Welcome Center and Frank and Paige Engro Veterinary Health Center. Installed by Solar States, the array includes both pitched standing seam metal roofing and a ballasted flat roof system, showcasing versatile, real-world solar design in a public setting.

The event is held in partnership with the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) as part of Philadelphia Solar Week, and will feature the official launch of Solarize Greater Philadelphia, a citywide campaign to help residents and small businesses go solar with confidence.

“We’re bringing clean energy to the heart of the community — not just on the roof, but into the daily experience of Zoo visitors,” said Jerry Pashko, Director of Sales at Solar States. “This is about creating visibility, accessibility, and momentum around solar power.”

Event Schedule:

• 10:00 AM — Press Conference featuring remarks from Solar States, Philadelphia Energy Authority, and Zoo leadership

• 10:30 AM — Public Tour of the solar array from the raised walkway and gazebo. Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tours of the rooftop system, Inverters and Electric infrastructure for limited, pre-registered guests.

• 10:30 AM — Solar Education Station on the Zoo’s promenade with hands-on activities, solar games, giveaways, and fun for families Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Pre-registration is required and space is limited to ensure safety and an up-close look at the array and equipment.

About Solar States

For more than 17 years, Solar States, LLC has been a regional leader in the solar industry – both as an installer and educator in the emerging Green Collar economy. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we have installed over 1,500 systems including rooftop solar, canopies, ground mounts, carports, EV chargers, storage. Keeping true to our founding mission, we have trained over 400 new entries to the Green Collar economy. For 1Y years, Solar States has been a dominant solar services provider in the Philadelphia region, and especially within the Philadelphia City limits.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, United States