Solar Case Study – Yarra’s Edge Towers | Commercial Solar Power by Energy Matters

Located in Docklands, Victoria and sitting on the north-facing banks of Melbourne’s Yarra River, Yarra’s Edge was home to residents who enjoy absolute waterfrontage.

The Yarra’s Edge body corporate had considered solar for a number of years before deciding to install a system.

After seeking assistance from Smart Blocks regarding the next steps, the body corporate was referred to Positive Charge to organise an experienced installation company for the project.

Energy Matters was then engaged to coordinate the 47.5 kW solar retrofit.

The installation was made very affordable by 290 residents splitting the cost of the project, amounting to around just $230 per resident.

“We have the social effects of solar where everyone gets involved, they love seeing it on the roof – they’re inspired by it. It also takes the pressure of the grid as it reduces daytime energy load,” said Nick Brass, General Manager and Sales, Energy Matters.

Not only did installing the solar array benefit the environment, but it also provided financial benefits for the owners, who were paying significantly less for power in their common areas.

“I think, honestly, that the research that we’ve done would suggest that anyone who has the opportunity to get into solar really should,” said Alan Ascough, Chairman of Yarra’s Edge Owners Corporation.

Mr Brass stated that if every high-rise and apartment building in Australia went solar, it would reduce 15% of Australia’s mains grid electricity usage.

”As the solar panels are going up, we have had a lot of people just feeling better about the building and a lot better about themselves. But it also increases the value of the product, their investment and their lifestyle, knowing that we are actually going greener,” said Dean Mollison, Resident Manager.