The historic carousel at the Woodland Park Zoo was recently given a high-tech, ecofriendly makeover - solar panels now power the popular attraction as part of Seattle City Light’s solar-panel demonstration project.

Even in the gray Emerald City, Mother Nature still works her wonders to keep the fun going.

The solar panels are expected to produce 9,000 kilowatt-hours annually, enough to offset the electricity required to power the carousel, which completes an average 100,000 rides per year. The project also serves as a model for renewable energy options for local homeowners; according to City Light, 9,000 kilowatt-hours is also the annual amount of electricity needed to power the average Seattle home.

“Seattle may be known as ‘Rain City,’ but solar does work here,” City Light Superintendent Jorge Carrasco said. “We’re excited to support this solar carousel project, to demonstrate very publicly how solar energy options are viable for both home and business use in our community.”

Watch The Seattle Channel's CityStream to learn more about City Light’s project and partnership with the Woodland Park Zoo.

Then tune in tonight for an all new CityStream. Artistic expressions may come easily for many creative types, but for others, it’s more a challenge: Meet one Seattle artist who uses art as a form of therapy. Plus, meet the racers who run for fun and to help maintain Seattle parks.