The Pines, Elanora is a major shopping complex situated in Elanora on Queensland’s Gold Coast. The complex features three major supermarkets, more than 80 specialty stores and now a unique solar power installation.
In partnership with Energy Matters, The Pines installed Australia’s largest single solar car park structure, which is more than three times the size of the next largest rooftop car park solar plant in Australia.
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Project overview
Location
Elanora, Queensland
System Size
636 kWp
Estimated Annual Production
1,021 MWh
Estimated Annual Carbon Offset
985 tonnes
Solar Panels
2,051 x 310 watt
Solar Inverter
SolarEdge
Completion Date
March 2016
The large PV array consisted of 2,051 x 310-watt solar panels with a total capacity of 636 kWp.
The solar panels were connected via 2,051 SolarEdge Optimizers to 19 x SolarEdge 3-Phase inverters. The Optimizers were small electronic devices attached to each solar panel that enabled panel-level monitoring and ensured each module panel was continually kept at maximum power point. Electricity losses due to mismatch or partial shading conditions can also be kept to a minimum through the use of SolarEdge Optimizers.
Additionally, this SolarEdge system also provided a superior level of safety.
The DC-DC optimisers revert to ‘extra low voltage’ when a system is off during daylight hours. This enables the building owner to install a solar structure in an occupied space (i.e. panels directly exposed to human traffic) without the need for a sprinkler system for fire safety.
If an accident occurs, the system will automatically enter safe mode once the communications link is breached or an emergency button is pressed. This allows firefighters to operate safely and use water to push back a flame front.
The solar power system was installed in a sawtooth formation and acts as a rooftop shelter in conjunction with energy generation, making it a unique structure.
The Energy Matters team designed the system, procured the components, and project-managed the build from start to finish; ensuring a successful implementation of the highest quality.
Energy Matters also managed the complex interactions among multiple project stakeholders to deliver the project with minimal disruption to centre operations.
In addition to solar, The Pines Elanora has introduced other environmental initiatives as part of its redevelopment, demonstrating leadership in this sector in reducing its carbon footprint.
This solar installation added to Energy Matters’ impressive track record of shopping centre projects.
Considering a commercial–scale solar project? Contact us today, and we can begin to build your system together.
