Babcock Ranch: Florida's Eco-City of Tomorrow
Babcock Ranch is an eco-city being built in southwest Florida by Kitson and Partners. Babcock Ranch is to be powered entirely by an onsite solar power system, the largest of its kind which will make Babcock Ranch the first city powered entirely by solar power. Florida Power and Light is building the 300 million dollar solar facility which will be hooked into a smart grid. The solar system will help Florida reach Governor Christ's goal of having 20% of Florida's power derived from renewable resources by 2020. The facility is scheduled to cost 2 Billion dollars with 300 Million slated for the 75MW solar power plant. Babcock Ranch is projected to create 20,000 permenant jobs within the state.
Key Design Features:
- Largest PV Solar System combined with Smart Grid
- Smart Homes designed for energy efficiency and to withstand 120 MPH winds
- Completely interconnectted with bike and walking paths
- Neighborhood fitness center
- Full wired for the future
- Adjacent to a 73,000 acre wildlife preserve
- Will be a Florida Green Building Coalition Certified Community
- City is to serve as a learning labratory for energy efficiency
What do you think of developing green cities? Is this the model for all future development in undeveloped areas?
All photos: Babcock Ranch
