Solar Powered Aeration for Ponds at the Recreational Complex

The City of Cocoa Beach, with the assistance of Healey & Associates, has SOLARIZED its Recreational complex. The City's Recreational Complex has a 27 hole golf course with numerous water hazards. These bodies of water, like most ponds in Florida, are susceptible to algae growth. Healey & Associates provided assistance in controlling the algae using aeration, one of the most effective methods of algae control. The Aeration System installed in a water hazard at the city's golf course is a completely self contained system using a solar electric or photovoltaic array for power. The aeration system is mounted on a flotation device that is tethered in the pond.

During daylight hours photovoltaic panels power an air compressor that pumps air down into the pond. The aeration serves to destratify the water, enhance circulation, and increase oxygen levels throughout the pond. The aeration of ponds has been proven to be an effective means of controlling algae and photovoltaics is a most desirable means of powering aeration systems safely and efficiently in ponds.

The city plans to move the aeration system throughout the golf course to help control algae throughout the facility.