Orlando – October 06, 2026 -- D3Energy has energized a 1.4 MW floating photovoltaic system at Universal Epic Universe, part of a broader 3.7 MW on-site solar program expected to generate more than 6.7 million kilowatt-hours annually -- enough to power over 900 homes.
Epic Universe becomes first theme park to earn LEED Platinum certification
The certification was awarded under LEED for Communities: Plan and Design, with the overall three-installation solar program managed by Qcells and the floating solar component delivered by D3Energy.
Floating array links solar generation directly to electric bus charging
Power generated by the floating system is stored in batteries during the day and used overnight to charge Universal's electric bus fleet, connecting solar generation, battery storage and electric transportation in a single operational loop.
Project marks D3Energy's second floating solar deployment for Universal Orlando
The Epic Universe installation follows a floating solar system D3Energy completed at Universal's main Orlando campus in 2021, with both projects built on Ciel & Terre's Hydrelio floating solar platform.
"We're proud to continue our relationship with Universal Orlando through a second floating solar project," said Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy, adding that the company valued Qcells' leadership in managing the overall solar program.
D3Energy has built more than half of all operating floating solar systems in the U.S.
The Epic Universe deployment adds a high-profile reference project for floating solar's ability to expand renewable generation capacity without additional land use, as D3Energy works exclusively in floating photovoltaics for utilities, municipalities and private enterprises nationwide.