The APVI solar maps have been useful and interesting tools – and now the organisation is seeking to build on the suite of applications with the help of crowdfunding.
Currently, there are 6 different types of maps and tools showing where solar power systems are installed throughout Australia and how much electricity in each state is coming from the sun. These maps are regularly referenced both locally and overseas and provide insights for industry and government, plus act as valuable general education tools.
A particularly stunning map is an animation showing the uptake of PV installations across Australia since January 2007; by average system size and market penetration.
(Screenshot from Australian PV Institute (APVI) Solar Map, funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, accessed from pv-map.apvi.org.au on 20 March 2015.)
Recently, the APVI was requested to map solar by electorate in Queensland. The independently funded task was completed and showed major uptake in some areas – up to 40% in some electorates.
“We want to do the same thing now for the rest of Australia, starting with New South Wales,” says APVI.
“To achieve this, we have started a crowdfunding campaign to raise the funds to get this done. Only $2500 is needed to map NSW by electorate. With more we will extend the mapping by electorate across Australia, More still and we will add increased functionality and communication around the Solar Map.”
To map the entire nation by electorate, $15,000 is required.
The crowdfunding campaign can be viewed here. Depending on the amount pledged, various benefits are offered.
The Australian PV Institute is a not-for-profit, member-based association of companies, agencies, individuals and academics. Its objective is to support the increased development and use of PV via research, analysis and information.
The APVI also works with its members to produce video material on the solar industry in Australia – to promote the industry both domestically and internationally. A video released at its recent Solar Research Conference provides a snapshot of the current status of the industry, the strengths of Australia’s solar sector and the industry’s future.
The organisation is also inviting the local industry to participate in its ‘PV in Australia’ survey; the results of which form the basis of local industry activity, planning and program development.
