LADWP’s Los Angeles Zoo Grid Resiliency Project
Powering a More Sustainable Future
The L.A. Zoo Grid Resiliency Project, initiated by the Mayor and L.A. City Council, is a major clean energy initiative designed to support a more resilient, sustainable future for the Zoo, the City, and the surrounding community. Developed in partnership with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), this project will transform the Zoo’s parking infrastructure into a hub for renewable energy generation, electric vehicle charging, and advanced energy storage.
Originally initiated in 2016 and formalized through a Letter of Agreement in 2023, the project reflects a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action.
The L.A. Zoo Grid Resiliency Project will be the largest municipal solar power generation facility installed on city-owned land in Los Angeles.
Project Overview
The solar carport will span a large portion of the Zoo’s parking area and feature:
- Clean solar power generation
- Approximately 6,300 solar panels
- EV charging stations
- A 15-foot-high canopy structure
The energy produced will be delivered directly to the City’s power grid, offsetting demand equivalent to more than 2,000 homes.
LADWP will construct, own, and operate the system as part of its Distributed Energy Resources Program.
Electric Vehicle Charging & Infrastructure
The project significantly expands electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.
A vendor partner will install and operate EV charging stations, ensuring reliable access for staff, visitors, and fleet operations.
In addition, the parking lot will be fully repaved and restriped.
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
A key component of the project is the installation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
This system will:
- Store excess solar energy generated during the day
- Deliver power during peak demand periods
- Improve overall grid reliability
- Help reduce the risk of brownouts (temporary voltage reductions)
Operational Impacts During Construction
Construction will be carefully phased to minimize disruption to Zoo operations, guests, and staff. Key considerations include:
- Partial parking lot section closures during each construction phase
- Temporary adjustments to traffic flow and parking access
Despite temporary impacts, maintaining a positive guest experience remains a top priority throughout construction.
Advancing Sustainability Goals
The Zoo has prioritized this project for a variety of reasons, but specifically because it furthers the L.A. Zoo’s mission and vision as well as the Mayor’s Climate Action Plan. Fundamentally, the Grid Resiliency Project directly supports both Zoo and City sustainability initiatives by:
- Expanding renewable energy generation
- Expanded public EV charging access
- Accelerating the transition to electric transportation
- Enhancing energy storage and grid stability
- Reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
By integrating solar power, EV infrastructure, and energy storage into a single project, the Zoo is helping set a new standard for sustainable public facilities.
Looking Ahead
As Los Angeles prepares to welcome the world for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Zoo Solar Carport Project represents a forward-thinking investment in clean energy, innovation, and community benefit.
This project is more than infrastructure, it’s a commitment to a cleaner, more resilient future.
for more information
For construction project questions email: aldenae.williams@ladwp.com
For Zoo operations questions: LAZoo.info@LACity.org