Caesars Entertainment Boosts Renewable Energy Initiatives in Atlantic City

By Jane Shaw Senior Editor Updated: 10/28/2023

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Caesars Unveils Solar Canopy Installations

In a push to improve its clean energy initiatives, Caesars Entertainment has unveiled a series of solar canopy installations in Atlantic City, marking a significant step toward reducing the company’s carbon footprint. This initiative involves the conversion of sunlight into electricity using advanced photovoltaic panels.

Caesars Entertainment’s commitment to environmental sustainability has become evident in its Atlantic City properties, with both Caesars Atlantic City and Harrah’s Resort & Casino Atlantic City now sporting solar panels on their rooftops and garages. The installation of the panels, carried out by DSD Renewables, puts Caesars at the forefront of the gaming industry’s sustainability efforts.

An Ambitious Pledge

In 2018, Caesars made an ambitious pledge to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Recent reports indicate that the company is not only on track but significantly ahead of its schedule.

By 2022, Caesars had already cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by an impressive 42%, surpassing its initial target of a 30% reduction by 2025. Scope 1 emissions refer to direct emissions like fuel combustion and vehicle usage, while Scope 2 relates to indirect emissions arising from purchased electricity, heat, and cooling.

This proactive approach to sustainability has been largely seen in Nevada, especially given the high energy demands of the company’s numerous casino resorts in the area. However, the recent announcement shifts the spotlight to Atlantic City, highlighting the company’s efforts to cut down energy reliance on conventional utilities.

Partnership with DSD Renewables

Caesars’ partnership with New York-based DSD Renewables has played a vital part in this green shift. DSD has sponsored the installation of four solar canopies distributed between Caesars Atlantic City and Harrah’s Resort & Casino Atlantic City. These installations comprise 1.7 MW and 886 kW solar garage canopies at Caesars, and dual 1.9 MW solar canopies at Harrah’s.

In addition, a fifth canopy, equipped with a 913-kW solar rooftop system, is set to be installed at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in the coming year. Upon completion, Caesars’ combined solar capabilities will reach an impressive 7.3 MW. According to both Caesars and DSD, these solar canopies are projected to cater to 6% of Caesars’ energy requirements in Atlantic City.

Eric Dominguez, senior vice president of engineering and asset management at Caesars Entertainment, said:

These projects in Atlantic City exemplify our pursuit to integrate more clean energy resources into our business and implement on-site renewables across our portfolio nationally while delivering real value locally to the communities in which we operate.

Aside from the environmental benefits, these installations offer various practical advantages to the properties. For example, the solar garage canopies will help to control snow accumulation, leading to decreased snow removal expenses. In addition, during the hotter months, the canopies will provide shade, ensuring increased comfort for employees and visitors.

What’s more, the installation of solar panels on top of Caesars’ garage is expected to extend the garage roof’s durability and cut down cooling costs due to reduced UV exposure. This will benefit both the environment and the company’s purse strings by helping to reduce costs.