The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum (SDCDM), nestled in the heart of Escondido, has long been a hub for interactive learning and creativity. But in June 2024, the museum took a significant step toward sustainability by installing a new rooftop solar system that will transform its operations for years to come.
With support from CollectiveSun and BQuest Foundation, GRID Alternatives installed a 29.9 kW solar system over three weeks, projected to produce 44,045 kWh annually—enough to meet 85% of the museum’s energy needs. This shift to renewable energy will significantly reduce SDCDM’s operational costs, allowing the nonprofit to reinvest those savings into expanding its educational programs for the 100,000 visitors it welcomes each year, including families, young children, and school groups.
For Heather Disher, Director of Advancement at SDCDM and a longtime Escondido resident, the solar installation is a perfect alignment with the museum’s values.
"Sustainability is at the core of what we do,” Heather said. “We want to ensure that children not only engage in hands-on learning but also understand the importance of protecting the environment. By transitioning to solar energy, we can lead by example."
The new solar panels will not only power the museum but also support SDCDM’s broader goal of integrating sustainability into its educational curriculum. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits, the WaterWays interactive table, teaches children about buoyancy and water flow, while fostering awareness of water conservation—an issue that resonates deeply in Southern California. Heather hopes that solar energy education will soon become a central part of their programming, helping children learn about the importance of renewable energy in real time.
As a nonprofit dedicated to equitable access, SDCDM offers affordable tickets, field trip scholarships for underserved schools, and free admission for visitors through the San Diego County Literacy Program. The savings from the solar installation will enable the museum to continue providing these opportunities while also prioritizing the needs of the local community.
“For us, this solar system is about more than just energy savings. It’s about building a brighter, more sustainable future for the children and families we serve,” Heather added. “With the environment and climate being such key parts of our programming, we’re excited to see how this solar installation can inspire the next generation of learners to care about their planet.”
By embracing solar power, SDCDM is leading the way in demonstrating how clean energy can support community-driven impact while shaping the minds of future innovators and environmental stewards