Florida Power & Light launches solar center at Kennedy Space Center

Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) commissioned last week the FPL Discovery Solar Energy Center at Kennedy Space Center.

The center was launched at a ceremony last week, attended by FPL, officials from NASA, as well as state and local officials. The completion of the FPL Discovery Solar Energy Center means FPL is now more than 40 percent of the way to its goal of installing 30 million solar panels by 2030. This initiative will bring 11,700 MW of cost-effective solar capacity to the company by 2030.

“At Florida Power & Light Company, we have been honored to power some of the most remarkable moments in American history — like the first crewed mission to land on the moon in 1969. We are proud to build on this historic relationship with our friends at NASA as we commission our 40th solar energy center,” FPL President and CEO Eric Silagy said. “Importantly, it’s also part of how we consistently deliver America’s best energy value.”

While FPL installed 500 acres of solar panels at the Kennedy Space Center as part of this effort, NASA is launching an initiative to repower the International Space Station with solar arrays.

“Kennedy Space Center is our nation’s gateway to the universe, but our responsibility to future generations starts right here at home. For this reason, leasing the land for the Discovery Solar Energy Center to FPL is a win-win,” Janet Petro, acting director of the John F. Kennedy Space Center, said. “Now, previously underutilized NASA land is generating clean, zero-emissions energy for the space center and beyond.”

At the commissioning ceremony, attendees also got a view of the solar energy center from a temporary viewing platform and had the opportunity to meet FPL’s “Sunny” the solar tree — a 3D augmented reality feature installed on the platform at the event. FPL also showcased the technology it deploys during hurricane season, including drone technology and a robot dog and rover.

“Like NASA, we are always looking over the horizon and harnessing new technology so we can build a more resilient and sustainable energy future that all of us can depend on – including future generations. This unwavering dedication allows us to provide our customers with even more clean, reliable, and affordable energy,” Silagy said. “The FPL Discovery Solar Energy Center is just one example of our commitment to help the Sunshine State live up to its name.

The FPL Discovery Solar Energy Center is a 74.5-megawatt solar site capable of producing enough zero-emissions energy to power 15,000 homes per year. It will support FPL SolarTogether – the largest community solar program in the nation. It is FPLʻs 40th solar energy center in Florida, with more are on the way.