In honor of World Ocean Month, The Florida Aquarium and Tampa Electric welcomed nearly 40 campers from Mission Tampa Bay to The Florida Aquarium’s new 6,000 square-foot Rooftop Terrace, to highlight the importance of solar energy. The Terrace, which overlooks Tampa Bay, includes a state-of-the-art solar installation made possible through an innovative partnership with Tampa Electric Company (TECO). The panels will produce an estimated 134 kilowatts of electricity each year. That is enough electricity to power approximately 18 homes.
“We are extremely appreciative of TECO’s involvement as we strive to make a difference in our community,” said The Florida Aquarium’s President and CEO Roger Germann. “In addition to producing clean, affordable, renewable energy, the new Terrace will serve as an educational opportunity to teach kids about using renewable power to protect our Blue Planet.”
The scenic Rooftop Terrace is the newest of The Florida Aquarium’s offerings of versatile event and entertainment space. In addition to the beautiful view, the space also is equipped with high-end audio/visual and a louvered cover for shade during events. Accessible from both inside and out, when not in use for a private event, the Rooftop Terrace is open to the public for rest and relaxation during an Aquarium visit.
Students from Mission Tampa Bay, as part of their summer camp program at The Florida Aquarium, learned more about the importance of solar energy as a clean, affordable renewable energy source, the innovative solar installation at the Aquarium, and its impact on local communities.
Today’s event is the first of a weekend full of excitement for the Aquarium which includes participation in Saturday’s Drive-Thru Pep Rally for the Tampa Bay Lightning and the kick-off of Summer Shell-a-Bration.
Reserved, general admission timed tickets provide families the opportunity to enjoy a Summer Celebration, from June 13-20, featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, and meet and greets with shelled animals. Guests are also invited to experience A Lasting Legacy in Tampa Bay Conservation: Inspiration through Art, a student art exhibition that opened on Wednesday. For more information, visit www.flaquarium.org/attendanevent.
For news on The Florida Aquarium in Tampa and theme parks, attractions, and more across the region, follow Touring Central Florida on Twitter @TourCentralFL and like our Facebook page.