The 100-foot heritage tree in downtown Felton will be even greener than it appears this Christmas season.
When about 8,000 LED Christmas lights sparkle during Felton’s annual tree-lighting ceremony Saturday, Nov. 28, they will be powered by a battery charged by solar panels mounted on a nearby roof.
Six years ago, John Fasolas, the owner of Running Electric and a member of the Felton Business Association, began stringing the lights on the tree. Then, three years ago, the association purchased low-energy LED Christmas lights.
“It was using only about 200 watts of electricity, and we thought, ‘Hey, we could run this on solar power,’” Fasolas said. “Three years later, we are.”
Fasolas installed two solar panels on the nearby Chopstix restaurant that produce 216 watts each and set up two solar batteries that will store energy to run the lights.
Fasolas’ business bought the solar setup. He thinks public Christmas trees in towns and cities across the nation should consider doing the same.
“I’m hoping that I’m the first of many,” he said.
At a glance
• WHAT: Felton tree lighting
• WHEN: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28
• WHERE: Felton Deck, near Chopstix, 6249 Highway 9
• DETAILS: See the tree lighting and then walk to Felton Fire for refreshments and free pictures with Santa
