Burke Lake Golf Course is going green in a big way this Earth Month with the activation of a new 55-kilowatt rooftop solar array, now generating clean, renewable energy atop its clubhouse. This installation is part of a broader solar initiative across Fairfax County facilities and marks the third solar array to date installed by the Fairfax County Park Authority FCPA.
The new array will offset an estimated 22% of the golf center’s annual electricity needs. This is enough to power six homes per year and significantly reduce the site's environmental footprint.
With a lifespan of more than 20 years, rooftop-mounted solar panels are most efficient and cost-effective when installed early in a roof’s life cycle — ideally within the first five years. Because the Burke Lake Golf Center clubhouse was recently rebuilt, it was an ideal candidate for solar installation. FCPA prioritized this site accordingly and continues to assess other facilities with newer roofs for similar upgrades.
“Sustainability starts with thoughtful choices — whether it’s recycling, conserving energy, or investing in renewable infrastructure,” said FCPA Executive Director Jai Cole. “At Burke Lake Golf Center, we saw an opportunity to make a smart, future-focused improvement that supports the environment, enhances the guest experience, and reduces long-term costs. It’s a win all around.”
This solar installation was completed in partnership with Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) and supports the county’s ambitious goals for carbon neutrality. These include powering at least 50 percent of county operations with renewable energy by 2040.
“By switching on this solar array at Burke Lake Golf Center, we are taking another step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Fairfax County" said John Morrill, director of the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination. "This effort underscores the county's commitment to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, cut energy costs, protect the environment, and advance our county’s Operational Energy Strategy goals.”
Burke Lake Golf Course is located at 6915 Ox Road in Fairfax Station. For more information, contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.