Solar Project

Note: Renderings, supplied by Arch Solar

The Pettit National Ice Center, a cherished community institution since 1992, is embracing a sustainable future with the installation of a 690 kW rooftop solar energy system in partnership with Arch Solar, a Wisconsin-based solar company. This milestone project marks a significant leap forward in the center’s commitment to energy efficiency and long-term planning.

Spanning over 200,000 square feet—including nearly 97,000 square feet of ice—the Pettit National Ice Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and one of the largest indoor ice-skating facilities in the United States. Maintaining its controlled climate and ice conditions requires substantial energy, making sustainability a critical priority.

The new solar array is projected to offset 20% of the facility’s annual energy use, reducing operational costs and reinforcing the Pettit Center’s role as a responsible community leader. Savings from renewable energy will be reinvested into operations and capital improvements, helping ensure future generations can enjoy this world-class venue.

“At the Pettit National Ice Center, we are proud to take this bold step toward a more sustainable future,” said Paul Golomski, General Manager. “The installation of our rooftop solar array represents more than just an investment in clean energy—it’s a commitment to our community, our athletes, and the generations to come.”

“By offsetting a significant portion of our energy use, we’re not only reducing our environmental footprint but also ensuring the long-term viability of this world-class facility,” said Golomski.

Arch Solar, known for its tailored and efficient solar installations across Wisconsin, designed the system to offset up to 100% of peak energy loads during the spring and summer seasons. Featuring 1,180 bi-facial solar panels mounted on custom racking, the array will generate over 815,000 kWh annually, equivalent to eliminating the environmental impact of burning nearly 800,000 pounds of coal or powering more than 123 homes for a year.

“The Pettit National Ice Center is doing something extremely unique by using solar power to cool multiple rinks,” said Andrew Holmstrom, Business Development Supervisor at Arch Solar. “Projects like this show how a commitment to sustainability can strengthen both the community and the bottom line.”

This forward-thinking initiative was made possible through a generous donation from VoLo Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to sustainable solutions and environmental advocacy. With strong ties to skating, VoLo Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the Pettit Center’s mission. “At VoLo Foundation, we are proud to support the Pettit National Ice Center in reducing its carbon footprint through the installation of solar panels,” said founders David S. Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel. “The system’s performance will be monitored to ensure efficiency and benefits for the community it serves. Together, we’re advancing a future powered by smart choices that allow us all to thrive.”

About VoLo Foundation 
VoLo Foundation is a private nonprofit organization with a mission to accelerate change and global impact by supporting science-based climate solutions, enhancing education, and improving health. Learn more at https://volofoundation.org