Cherokee tribe goes solar at visitors centers

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has installed a series of metal trees baring solar panels on the branches near the three visitors areas on the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee. The artistic solar arrays fashioned in the form of a tree were installed at the Welcome Center on Tsali Boulevard, the visitors center on U.S. 19 and a public rest area and information kiosk near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance. The tribe hopes the unique look will draw attention from visitors to the reservation. The end goal is to make the Welcome Center LEED certified and the downtown building achieve net zero energy status, meaning it does not use any non-renewable energy. The addition of the solar panels is part of a larger Energy Efficiency & Environmental Showcase, which includes solar hot water, more efficient lighting and improved insulation, and a small wind turbine. The total project is being funded through a $500,000 from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation, a nonprofit focused on preserving native culture, protecting the natural environment and creating diverse economic opportunities.