We have seen Disney join or kickstart quite a few environmentally friendly initiatives within the last few years.

Now, Disneyland Paris is launching an ambitious solar energy initiative…in one of their parking lots.

Through a co-investment with Urbasolar, Disneyland Paris has announced the phased development of one of the largest solar canopy plants in all of Europe.

This new development will be located in the resort’s main guest parking lot and “will contribute to the reduction of Val d’Europe local territory greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximatively 750 tons of CO2 per year.” On top of this, it will provide additional guest enhancements like shade and shelter from sunlight, rain, or snow.

The President of Disneyland Paris, Natacha Rafalski, shared that “Environmental innovation and stewardship are a tradition that began with Walt Disney himself, and this ambitious solar power project is the latest in our commitment to the environment at Disneyland Paris.” “It is our responsibility as a business and leading tourist destination to contribute to the long-term sustainability of our resort and the region through environmentally responsible practices.”

This development will encompass 42 acres of solar panels, “using 67,500 solar panels for a production of 31 gigawatt-hours per year (GWh/year).” This won’t only be allocated to the resort, but it is technically enough energy to account for 17% of the resort’s energy consumption! Wow! Wouldn’t it be awesome if we could see something like this in more Disney locations as well?

Once the project is completed, a section will light up in the shape of a Mickey head.

Construction began back in July and is expected to be completed in 2023. A first milestone for the first phase is set to be completed in spring 2021.

You can learn more about the project in the video below.

We will continue to keep you updated on this as progress is shared.

See how Disneyland Paris is celebrating Halloween here.

Have you visited Disneyland Paris? Let us know in the comments below.