A Technology Assessment Division project demonstrates the application of photovoltaic power in an area where conventional electric power may not be possible or may be cost prohibitive. This real world example consists of two solar panels erected at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Waddill Refuge Outdoor Educational Pavilion.
The Solar Panels are part of a complete stand-alone system that totally power's the pavilion's lights, fans, and skeet throwers, which are all housed at the same location. The pavilion features the most advanced technology currently available to automatically control the fans and lighting thus making the energy use characteristics of the building highly efficient. The undertaking was completed in August 1999. The project, constructed primarily as an educational site, was a partnership effort between the Department of Energy and Natural Resources and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, who were aided in construction by the City of Baton Rouge's Department of Public Works.
Since its completion the pavilion has been used on a regular basis to conduct regular hunter safety courses, other various educational activities, and host outdoor sporting events. The Waddill demonstration is an excellent place to see, up close, a real working model that contains all of the components needed to have a fully functioning off grid system that is truly stand alone. All of the components are clearly visible and marked so that a visitor can see how all of the individual parts relate to the whole system.

If you would like more information about the facility, or would like to tour the facility we welcome you to do so.

Please contact Buddy Justice at
(225) 342-4498
or
Buddy.Justice@la.gov