September 30, 2025
Organization
Henderson Texas Economic Development
Henderson, TX – On a bright and hopeful afternoon, the City of Henderson officially unveiled the installation of a SmartFlower Garden at the Henderson Innovation Park, marking a pivotal moment in the city's commitment to sustainability and innovation. This event, attended by community leaders, partners, and esteemed guests, heralded a new chapter for Henderson as a leader in renewable energy within East Texas.
The new SmartFlower Garden, featuring five innovative SmartFlowers, is strategically positioned within the park to maximize both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These SmartFlowers represent more than just solar panels; they are an embodiment of advanced technology and artistic design. Set to transform the region’s renewable energy landscape, the SmartFlower system is known for its high efficiency. By tracking the sun throughout the day, it can generate up to 40% more electricity than traditional fixed solar panels.This dynamic design has been celebrated at iconic institutions like Volkswagen, Adidas, and Toyota, and now, Henderson Innovation Park joins this distinguished list.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mark Conroy, President of SmartFlower, delivered a compelling speech. "We are truly honored that the City of Henderson has selected SmartFlower as a partner in its visionary approach to community-centered growth and sustainability," Conroy stated. "Henderson's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship sets an inspiring example for other communities across the region."
Henderson Innovation Park itself spans 300 acres and features crucial amenities such as green spaces, sidewalks, and a scenic lake, designed to foster a vibrant and sustainable environment for businesses and community members alike. The park's infrastructure, which includes essential services like sewer and water, storm drains, electricity, natural gas, and fiber optic connectivity, provides a supportive ecosystem for new businesses to innovate and expand.
The installation marks Henderson Innovation Park as the only business park in East Texas with on-site renewable energy of this kind, putting the city on the map as a regional leader in sustainable development. "This is more than a ribbon-cutting; it's a symbol of Henderson's journey toward a sustainable and prosperous future," Conroy added.
Bret Gardella, Executive Director of Henderson EDC, was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. He stated, "This is Henderson Texas Economic Development Corporation’s commitment to being Tomorrow’s Texas and building a sustainable future.”
The local community was in attendance, including Mayor Henry Pace, Rusk County Judge Joel Hale and other city and county officials underscoring the community’s dedication to shared goals.
With the SmartFlowers now up and running, the city takes a confident step forward, with one shared goal: an even more vibrant, forward-looking Henderson in the years ahead. And this is just the beginning, with more smart, sustainable projects on the horizon.