Gov. Martin O'Malley and his wife, Katie, have put a "green" stamp on the governor's mansion since moving in three years ago. Next week, they will take environmentalism to a new level by installing solar panels on the roof.
The panels, and other upgrades such as more efficient lighting and temperature controls, are part of a broader project to save energy at state-operated buildings. The solar array will provide about half of the hot water used by the mansion's residents, and will be installed inconspicuously to preserve the character of the 140-year-old historic mansion that is one of the most visible landmarks in Annapolis.
"Mrs. O'Malley is hot on the idea," the governor quipped yesterday.
FOR THE RECORD
An article Thursday incorrectly described how solar panels at the governor's mansion will work. The thermal panels will produce solar-heated water.
The Baltimore Sun regrets the error.
Each new administration has put its imprimatur on the mansion known as Government House, which has served as the residence for Maryland governors since being built in 1870.
Every change made to the Georgian-style home - which sits across the street from the State House and has received guests ranging from Mark Twain to Queen Elizabeth to Sugar Ray Leonard - draws attention.
Gov. Harry Hughes and his wife, Patricia, were known for period decorating at the governor's mansion. Gov. Parris N. Glendening and his second wife, Frances, allowed local artists to temporarily display paintings in the house and sculpture on the lawn. Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. and his wife, Kendel, the first gubernatorial couple to have young children at home in more than 50 years, made the place kid-friendly - adding a tub where they could bathe their young sons.
The O'Malleys have ramped up recycling at the house, and this summer planted a vegetable garden with the help of local farmers. They also installed an irrigation system that uses rain water caught in several barrels on the manicured property. The solar panels will provide electricity to the current electric water heater.
O'Malley, who has championed environmental causes since he was elected, is not the first politician to take a stand at home.
In the 1970s, Jimmy Carter installed solar panels on the White House. Former Vice President Al Gore has turned his Tennessee home into an environmentalist showplace, and George W. Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas, was built to consume minimal energy.
Governor's mansions in New York, Florida, Colorado, Michigan and Ohio have added solar thermal panels to heat water, solar electric panels to provide power, or both.
