Meet Daisy, our Solar Flower
Welcome Daisy, our new SmartFlower that will provide solar energy to GSCCC’s headquarters and program center, A Place for Girls. Daisy, named after Girl Scout founder Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low, was officially dedicated on Monday, October 2, 2023 at a special ceremony. What a perfect month for a Girl Scout dedication; Juliette Low was born on October 31, 1860.
Since Daisy founded Girl Scouting in 1912, our skills-based programs have tremendously progressed. Robotics, coding, and rocketry weren’t even imagined in the early 20th century, yet they’re definitely part of our dynamic STEM programs. Today, we are taking the next step to introduce girls to the benefits of renewable energy and the science of solar energy production. Daisy is the newest tool in our Girl Scout toolbox.
We thank Dominion Energy Foundation for their generous gift. Their leadership donation planted the seed to allow Daisy to grow into an energy source and a unique curriculum. We also thank Senator Kaine and Senator Warner for their support in helping us apply for federal funding (which is pending), and The Blocker Foundation.
Be sure to catch Daisy at work when you visit A Place for Girls. Daisy’s day begins at sunrise and she continues to work as she follows the sun until sunset, when she then cleans and stores her petals — aka solar panels — for the night. Did you know that Daisy uses advanced robotics and automation to intelligently track the sun, making up to 40% more energy than traditional stationary solar panels? This one unit produces 4,000 to 6,200 kilowatts annually, which will help offset the electrical consumption of our headquarters.
Many thanks to everyone who attended the dedication and helped us welcome our newest addition, including Chesapeake City Council Member Daniel Whitaker who opened the proceedings with a congratulatory message to GSCCC for their environmental stewardship and leadership, Virginia Beach Mayor Robert Dyer, and members of the Chesapeake Schools. Visit gsccc.org/smartflower to learn more about Daisy’s technology and to track her output.
