SunEdison Australia was proud to help Zoos Victoria attain carbon-neutral certification, making it the first zoo in the world to do so.
Set against the Australian Government National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS), the certification by Low Carbon Australia represented a huge step for Victoria Zoos as it leads the way in carbon reduction.
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Project overview
Location
Healesville Sanctuary / Werribee Zoo
System Size
12.5 kWp / 20.25 kWp
Estimated Annual Production
12.5 MWh / 27 MWh
Solar Panels
50 x REC 250W / 81 x Yingli 250W
Solar Inverter
SMA Sunny TriPower 15 kW / ABB Trio 20 kW
Mounting System
SunLock 30˚/ SunLock 10˚ commercial tilt
Werribee Open Range Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary each installed solar PV systems as part of their green energy initiatives outlined in the organisation’s 2008 Environmental Sustainability Strategy. SunEdison installed the two systems—20.25 kWp and 12.5 kWp, respectively—on time and on budget. The installations did not affect public access to the zoos; the work areas were closed off, but operations otherwise continued as normal.
Initiatives that supported the certification alongside solar PV included efficient lighting, heat pump hot water systems, in-vessel composting of organic waste, and upgrading the glass at the butterfly house, among many others.
Zoos Victoria also implemented a staff energy reduction program that conducted audits and focused on equipment and power sources, including lights, computers, heaters, and air conditioners.
Additionally, Zoos Victoria invested in four carbon offset projects focused on biodiversity preservation.
Its efforts didn’t end there – Zoos Victoria continued to pursue resource-efficiency programs to reduce further its operational impacts and emissions, including developing renewable energy options.
SunEdison commended Zoos Victoria for their achievements, particularly their readiness to take the necessary steps towards creating a sustainable zoo.
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