With this idea, they hit one out of the park.

Energy Field, a roughly $3 million project spearheaded by Anaheim Public Utilities and Community Services, began construction in June 2007 and is scheduled to open in early 2009. Energy Field will provide a 3.1 acre mini-park to Hermosa Village — a newly redeveloped residential neighborhood in need of open, green space. Currently, over 45 percent of the neighborhood is children under 18 years old. At completion, the project will encourage greater recreation, community development, and youth activities in the area. But what also makes Energy Field truly unique is that it incorporates solar energy technology, water conservation measures, and a self-guided interpretative center to teach visitors about the benefits of energy efficiency and water conservation.

Solar energy

A key component of the project design is incorporating solar energy panels into the roofs of the picnic shelters and in a fenced-off ground array. The solar energy systems will be connected to the Anaheim Public Utilities energy grid to increase Anaheim’s power supply. Using clean renewable energy from the sun, the solar panels will generate enough power each year to support 21 average-sized homes.

Synthetic turf

Energy Field also boasts synthetic turf, which will be installed on 1.6 acres of the mini park’s “grassy” play area. Synthetic turf provides greater durability than traditional grass on a play surface, and can save an estimated 1.9 million gallons of water each year – enough to supply 12 typical Southern California families. It will also eliminate the need for mowing, edging, and chemicals and weed-killers – reducing water consumption and park maintenance costs.

Native plants

Native California plants and grasses will also be used to create Heritage Garden at Energy Field. The garden will provide natural beauty and encourage park visitors to appreciate the state’s history, tradition, and culture. The hardy, drought-resistant plants will serve to reduce overall water consumption, as well.

Community education

Additionally, a bilingual interpretative center, in the form of a kiosk, will be installed to educate park visitors about the benefits of solar energy technology and water conservation. Bilingual displays will point out ways to increase conservation efforts and promote renewable energy.