Here’s a community energy idea … A local Community Power Hub is working with a not-for-profit tourist facility to explore the feasibility of installing ground-level, solar panels in a secured area. The system is likely to be at least 100 kW and would be used to off-set the energy needed at the facility, with the aim of being a zero-net energy consumer. The site is relatively flat, clear of shade, and can be connected to a nearby substation feeding power back into the electricity grid. Ideally, an agreement would be reached with an energy retailer that the energy delivered by the array would directly offset metered consumption. The main benefits of this project would be savings from reduced energy costs which, in turn, would lead to an increase in the organisation’s ability to maintain infrastructure; increased ability to employ more staff; and, opportunities to deliver new activities that would attract more visitors. Installing such a large solar system could also reduce the energy load on Victoria’s energy production and distribution systems; provide for a demonstration site at a nationally recognised destination; and, generally improve the environment for the community.
