Solar canopies offer an innovative solution to congested areas where developing ground mount systems are challenging, or where roof space is crowded with mechanical equipment. In any location—urban, suburban, or rural—space is a premium and building multi-functional assets is forward thinking and often cost effective. Solar parking lot canopies can create covered walkways and carports that establish protected routes and comfortable access during inclement weather. Solar canopies can also help to alleviate urban heat island effects. In this session we’ll review two case studies, discussing project highlights and lessons learned. In 2020 the City of Boston invested in a 261kW solar electric parking garage canopy at the police headquarters as part of its Renew Boston Trust initiative. This carport canopy consists of 707 solar panels that reduce the amount of power the building draws from the grid, producing over 240,000 kWh annually. Oyster River Middle School in Durham, NH installed a 357kW carport canopy in 2021 consisting of 803 solar panels producing 380,847 kWh.