May 19, 2013
A Local 8 Weather Alert has been issued for today. Because of the threat of rain, thunder and even hail, outdoor activities may be disrupted or inconvenienced. What's going on? An upper-level low will be moving across East Tennessee today, creating a more unstable atmosphere.
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies was given a huge check on Tuesday for energy saving upgrades by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
TVA presented a check for $60,130.00 for finishing the TVA Energy Right Solutions. The money is the difference in a rebate offer for businesses who've completed the program.
"TVA estimated that we would, pretty much to be honest with you, be able to save close to $100,000 a year in electrical cost and I think in a year we're probably close to that," said Ryan DeSear, General Manager of Ripley's Tennessee. "We've saved a whole lot of money so far and we've had the program in place for 5 or 6 months at this point."
Ripley's improvements included converting to LED lighting and switching to waterless urinals.
DeSear says he's seen a difference in utility bills since the changes were made. Other Ripley's attractions are currently making the switch to LED lighting.
