Tamworth Regional Council is looking into installing a ground-based solar array at the city’s equine centre.
The Council says the curved roof of the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre (AELEC) means there could be structural problems with mounting solar panels.
Heated debate at the last council meeting of 2018 led councilors to abandon plans for rooftop solar panels at the centre.
The original proposal for rooftop solar would cost $74,875. As a result the council would save an estimated $7,375 per year on power bills.
Tamworth Regional Council paid $156,990 to power up AELEC in the last financial year, according to Council Sustainability Officer Tim Hurcum.
Rooftop solar controversial for Tamworth Council
At the final council meeting of the year, Councillor Russell Webb and Deputy Mayor Phil Betts spoke out against the installation of rooftop solar at AELEC.
The centre’s distinctive curved roof would cause ‘Worksafe’ issues for those tasked with cleaning and maintaining the panels, they said.
Webb also claimed the proposed payback period of more than 10 years was too long. This is “almost double” the average payback period for solar panels, he added.
Council has called for further research into a ground-mounted solar array at the equine centre.
Solar on the roof not suitable due to structural issues
The Northern Daily Leader reports councillor concerns about the unique structure of the AELEC building.
According to Councillor Glenn Inglis, the roof purlins may not be strong enough to support a rooftop solar installation.
Ground-mounted solar panel advantages
Ground-mounted panels have several advantages over rooftop panels. It can be easier to clean and maintain them as well as place them at optimum angles.
Panels also perform best when kept cool. Airflow around ground-mounted panels is therefore better because of the space below them.
Ground-based panels tend to get dirtier and are more susceptible to damage, however. A solar installation on the ground is also more obtrusive and takes up space in your garden or grounds.
Earlier in the year, Tamworth Regional Council voted for an $800,000 clean energy overhaul of 11 facilities in the region.
Solar power will therefore be installed in the local public swimming pool, community centre, sports dome, depot and water treatment plants among others.
