Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast Dedicate New ‘SmartFlower’ Solar Energy System
October 02, 2023
On Monday, October 2, 2023, Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast (GSCCC) welcomed Daisy, a new SmartFlower solar energy system that will provide power to GSCCC’s regional headquarters and program center, A Place for Girls, which is located in Chesapeake, Virginia. Standing at over 16 feet tall and equally as wide, Daisy, named after Girl Scout founder Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low, was officially dedicated on October 2 at a special ceremony.
Daisy uses advanced robotics and automation to intelligently track the sun, making up to 40% more energy than traditional stationary solar panels. The single unit produces 4,000 to 6,200 kilowatts annually, which will help offset the electrical consumption of GSCCC’s headquarters. Since the founding of Girl Scouts in 1912, the organization has offered skills-based programs that have progressed with the times. Today’s Girl Scouts can earn badges in rocketry, engineering, and coding. Now, they are taking the next step to introduce girls to the benefits of renewable energy and the science of solar energy production using Daisy, the newest tool in GSCCC’s program to help girls gain interest and competency in STEM.
Supporters and donors who have helped this project to be realized include Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation; U.S. Department of Energy with support from Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine; and The Blocker Foundation.
Dominion Energy’s Director of Community Engagement & Local Affairs Tonya Byrd, a Girl Scout alum from GSCCC's jurisdiction, delivered a message about the importance of introducing Girl Scouts to STEM at an early age.
“Being in the Girl Scouts was an integral part of my childhood and helped me explore various career opportunities. I am proud that Dominion Energy can continue to introduce young girls to STEM careers, specifically the science of solar energy generation, through Daisy the solar SmartFlower.”
Other attendees included Chesapeake City Council Member Daniel Whitaker who opened the proceedings with a congratulatory message to GSCCC for their environmental stewardship and leadership, Virginia Beach Mayor Robert Dyer, and members of the Chesapeake City Schools system.
Learn more at www.gsccc.org/smartflower.
(This story has also been featured at hrchamber.com.)
