What: Open Day for Port Macquarie Library’s solar power system
When: Friday 31st May 2013
Time: Open Day starts at 12.00 noon til 1.45pm, with official launch at 12.15pm
Where: Port Macquarie Library, Cnr Gordon & Grant Streets
As part of the NSW Government’s Waste and Sustainability Improvement Payment Program, Port Macquarie Hastings-Council has invested in a solar power system for its Port Macquarie Library in order to reduce operational costs.
After conducting its own feasibility study to determine the optimal size based on electricity consumption and where the solar array should be situated, Council engaged Energy Matters to provide the quality solar system product at the most competitive price.
In October 2012, local installers Wauchope Solar were contracted to install the 99kW solar system across the library’s complex roof. The solar arrays were each positioned to reach their peak generation at different times of the day, depending on the location of the sun, helping to ensure consistent power generation throughout the day.
Council’s Director of Infrastructure & Asset Management, Jeffery Sharp said that in the first seven months of the solar system’s operation, $32,000 has already been saved in electricity costs. Mr. Sharp also added that 179 tonnes of carbon dioxide is expected to be saved annually.
“We’re excited that Port Macquarie Library is now solar powered. And as visitors to the library can view its output and other details about the array on our in house display, we’re sure they’ll get excited about solar too,” said Mr. Sharp.
Energy Matters together with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Wauchope Solar will be hosting an open day to launch the initiative, with special guests including the Federal Member for Lyne, The Hon. Rob Oakeshott and Port Macquarie-Hastings Councillor Justin Levido. A light lunch will be served and guided tours of the fully operational solar power system will be conducted.
RSVP to Amelia Jarrett Ph: 1300 553 213 or Amelia.Jarrett@energymatters.com.au
Further details on the Port Macquarie Library system can be viewed here.
