The Pettit National Ice Center, a cherished community institution in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, since 1992, has powered up a 690-kW rooftop solar energy system installed by Arch Solar.
An early rendering of the system.
Spanning over 200,000 ft2 — including nearly 97,000 ft2 of ice — the Pettit National Ice Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and one of the largest indoor ice-skating facilities in the United States. Maintaining its controlled climate and ice conditions requires substantial energy, making sustainability a critical priority.
The new solar array is projected to offset 20% of the facility’s annual energy use, reducing operational costs. Savings from renewable energy will be reinvested into operations and capital improvements, helping ensure future generations can enjoy this world-class venue.
“At the Pettit National Ice Center, we are proud to take this bold step toward a more sustainable future,” said Paul Golomski, General Manager. “The installation of our rooftop solar array represents more than just an investment in clean energy — it’s a commitment to our community, our athletes and the generations to come.”
Arch Solar designed the system to offset up to 100% of peak energy loads during the spring and summer seasons. Featuring 1,180 bifacial solar panels mounted on custom racking, the array will generate over 815,000 kWh annually.
Solar panel install at Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Credit: Arch Solar
“The Pettit National Ice Center is doing something extremely unique by using solar power to cool multiple rinks,” said Andrew Holmstrom, Business Development Supervisor at Arch Solar. “Projects like this show how a commitment to sustainability can strengthen both the community and the bottom line.”
This initiative was made possible through a generous donation from VoLo Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to sustainable solutions and environmental advocacy. With strong ties to skating, VoLo Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the Pettit Center’s mission.
“At VoLo Foundation, we are proud to support the Pettit National Ice Center in reducing its carbon footprint through the installation of solar panels,” said founders David S. Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel. “The system’s performance will be monitored to ensure efficiency and benefits for the community it serves. Together, we’re advancing a future powered by smart choices that allow us all to thrive.”
News item from Arch Solar
