A solar power system bulk-buy program in Central Victoria has been hugely successful, achieving 450 installations so far – and with more to come.
450 homes and buildings in Mount Alexander Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and surrounding areas now have solar rooftops through the MASH solar program. Over the last 18 months, approximately 6,300 solar panels have been installed.
Coordinated by Castlemaine-based non profit group Hub Foundation, the initiative offered deeply-discounted, high quality solar power systems to assist households and businesses in reducing their electricity bills and carbon emissions.
While MASH2 closed for registrations on Monday 29 February; those who registered and have received a quote still have time to place their order if they do very soon, as quotes are valid for 14 days from date of issue.
“We are anticipating that the total number of MASH solar rooftops will be around 470 or 480 once this second round closes for orders,” said Jo Kaptein, Project Officer at the Hub Foundation.
” We are delighted with this result; the level of interest has been fantastic.”
Systems purchased under the latest round, MASH2, were supplied by Energy Matters’ parent company; which has been involved with similarly successful solar panel bulk-buy programs throughout Australia.
All MASH2 systems are battery-ready, enabling purchasers to join the energy storage revolution if they choose to in the future. The systems were offered as either outright cash purchase or under a solar loan program.
Hub Foundation has done an amazing job in promoting the benefits of solar energy in the region; coordinating a number of information sessions and keeping the community up to date through the MASH web site.
Launched in May 2014, Hub Foundation founders Neil and Heather Barrett have been involved in climate change and renewable energy projects for many years.
Macedon Ranges Shire is home to more than 44,000 and its major towns are Gisborne, Kyneton, Romsey and Woodend.
Mount Alexander Shire has a population of 18,000+. Castlemaine is its largest town and is also the regional business centre.
This isn’t the end of the MASH initiative – Hub Foundation says MASH3 will be launched soon.
