
This Solar-Powered Florida Town Was Built to Withstand Hurricanes. Did It Work?
25 October 2022 | Lisa Hall
Homes in Babcock Ranch are built on higher ground, protected by retention ponds, and powered by 650,000 solar panels.
As Hurricane Ian ravaged Florida last week, causing fatalities, destruction, and billions of dollars worth of damage, one south Florida town went relatively unscathed.
Babcock Ranch, a community of 4,600 residents, reported no power outages, no flooding, and no major structural damage. Except for a fallen traffic light, a few dislodged street signs, and some toppled palm trees, the town is still fully functional.
How is this possible?