If you're interested in learning more about how this project worked and why it directly responds to the recent electricity price hikes bringing real pain to far too many businesses and organisations, you can access One Step Off the Grid's full article here.
Or, you can watch Channel Nine's coverage by playing the video below:
Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club, one of the largest club facilities in the Illawarra region, has taken significant strides in sustainability through the strategic expansion of its solar energy system. Initially, in 2014, the club installed a 100kW solar system to explore the viability of solar energy and benefit from an upfront STC rebate. The results were promising, with the club enjoying reduced energy bills and closely monitoring the solar generation. However, in 2017, the club faced an unexpected challenge when energy prices in the region increased by 50%, adding an additional $250,000 to their operational costs.
This sharp rise in energy costs prompted the club to take more decisive action. Anastasi from Smart Commercial Solar, in collaboration with the club and their environmental consultant, Rana Environmental, developed a plan to significantly expand the solar capacity. The result was the largest solar installation on a club in New South Wales, with a 414kW system designed to cover 25% of the club’s total electricity demand. The majority of the solar panels were installed on the roof of the club’s indoor bowling greens, a structure with architecturally challenging curves on the East and West sides. Engineers from Smart Commercial Solar worked closely with racking manufacturers to create a seamless array that matched the unique roof profile while maximizing panel density.
The new 314kW array, combined with the existing 100kW system, not only slashes the club’s grid power consumption by 25%, but it also delivers substantial financial savings. The system generates approximately 530MWh of electricity annually, leading to $75,000 in combined annual savings from reduced electricity bills and the trading of Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs). The club has entered a five-year locked-in agreement with their LGC trader, further reducing the financial risks associated with fluctuating trade prices.
To ensure the long-term success and efficiency of the solar system, Smart Commercial Solar equipped the installation with Trina DuoMax frameless ‘glass on glass’ modules. These panels minimize grime buildup, seamlessly integrating with the roof design. Additionally, the system is monitored using Solar Analytics, providing detailed feedback from the 16 SMA inverters and offering easy access for the club to track its solar generation and performance.
Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club's commitment to sustainability extends beyond just financial benefits. As an active member of the Illawarra Sustainable Clubs Alliance, the club recognizes its responsibility to lead by example within the community. It has put in place a comprehensive sustainability charter aimed at reducing its ecological footprint, meeting community expectations, and lowering operational costs. The collaboration with Rana Environmental further strengthens the club's commitment, as the consultant provides guidance on integrating sustainability into the club’s core business management strategy.
This project not only represents a significant milestone for the Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club but also signals a broader trend within the region. As energy prices continue to rise, more clubs and businesses are recognizing the importance of investing in well-designed and managed solar systems to lower their overheads and minimize their environmental impact.