Solar Case Study – Zoos Victoria

SunEdison Australia is proud to have helped Zoos Victoria attain carbon-neutral certification, the first zoos in the world to do so.

Set against the Australian Government National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS), the certification by Low Carbon Australia represents a huge step for Victoria Zoos as it leads the way in carbon reduction.

Werribee Open Range Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary Zoo have each had solar PV systems installed as part of 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, delivering on time and on budget. The installations did not affect public access to the zoos, with the work areas being closed off but operations otherwise running as normal.

Initiatives that supported the certification alongside solar PV include 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 has a staff energy reduction program that carries out audits and targets equipment and power sources including lights, computers, heaters and air-conditioners.

Additionally, Zoos Victoria has invested in four carbon offset projects that focus on preserving biodiversity.

Its efforts don’t end there – Zoos Victoria will continue to pursue resource efficiency programs to further reduce its operational impacts and emissions; including developing renewable energy options.

SunEdison applauds Zoos Victoria on their achievements, especially their willingness to implement the many actions required to attain a sustainable zoo.

In addition to demonstrating environmental stewardship, commercial solar can make good financial sense. Considering a commercial-scale solar project?