Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic 87-year-old Fallingwater historic site is getting a very necessary modern upgrade according to a press release issued last month by Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, the organization responsible for its stewardship.

In order to supplement sustainability goals tied to the home’s current preservation needs, Fallingwater and the surrounding Bear Run Nature Reserve will now offset a full 100% of the structure’s energy use via a network of 540 individual 5 x 3-foot bifacial solar panels said to produce 254,880 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity a year. The Conservancy says their installation will offset the overall usage of the broader site by 25% annually.

“In designing Fallingwater, Wright sought to create a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. He was inspired by the natural features of the woodland landscape for the house’s colors, materials and design motifs, and oriented the building to take advantage of natural light and passive airflows,” a statement from the Conservancy’s Justin Gunther reads. “Installing solar carries forward Wright’s ideals and continues the Conservancy’s commitment to protect and preserve this beautiful landscape and the architectural principles that make Fallingwater unique.”

As was said by the Conservancy, the multiple aspects of the UNESCO-protected site are in need of restoration or capital improvements following a pandemic-induced downturn, including its sculpture garden, furniture collection, car bridge, and foundation. The organization will now look to bolster its standing in the preservation community by means of the installation, which is being done in partnership with Brooklyn-based green developer Ecogy Energy.

“To be involved in a project for a conservation-minded organization like the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and in such a beautiful location is undoubtedly an honor for Ecogy,” the company’s CEO Jack Bertuzzi said finally. “Fallingwater has a rich history, so being able to support and energize the site’s operations with clean energy truly represents the integration of sustainable solar technology with Wright’s architecture.”