New solar system to power Bluewater Leisure Centre

Published on 27 June 2018

New solar system to power Bluewater Leisure Centre

Colac Otway Shire’s target to be carbon neutral by 2020 has taken a giant leap in recent weeks with the installation of a 100kw solar array system on the roof of the Bluewater Leisure Centre.

Mayor Joe McCracken said the system was expected to generate a large portion of the centre’s electricity requirements during the warmer months and even now was reducing reliance on the power grid.

“It’s a very large system and uses the latest technology in panels which are not only more efficient, but lighter and therefore easier to install without compromising the load limit of the roof,” he said.

“We estimate that the system will reduce our carbon emissions by 250 tonnes per year and aside from the direct environmental benefits it’s pleasing that we can provide leadership in this area and help demonstrate what can be achieved with solar.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how self-sufficient Bluewater Leisure Centre can be when the warmer weather returns.

“To think that we will be generating our own clean power and significantly reducing our reliance on the grid for many months of the year is very exciting for Bluewater and the Colac Otway Shire Council.”

Cr McCracken said the new system was expected to save the Council approximately $25,000 each year in electricity bills and would pay for itself within six years.

“It’s a financially and environmentally sound investment for our community and it’s something our Council is very proud of,” he said.

“Generating clean energy for community facilities ticks a lot of boxes and contributes even further to our commitment to improve the liveability of Colac Otway Shire and the wellbeing of our community.”

The solar array system is supported by a website which shows real time data including how much energy is produced, the centre’s usage, how much carbon emissions are being prevented and the financial saving to Council.