Summer sun slashes Council power costs by up to 59%

The switch to solar power has helped Noosa Council slash its consumption of energy from the grid by up to 72% over summer, despite it being Australia’s hottest on record.

Project Officer Annie Nolan said the Noosaville depot, now equipped with a 50KW system, achieved the biggest saving over summer, with a 72% reduction in the power it takes from the grid.

“The reduction in the grid power usage delivered a 59% cheaper bill for the depot,” she said.

“Typically power consumption rises in summer as air-conditioning works harder to keep indoor temperatures to a comfortable level,” Ms Nolan said.

“However, thanks to the new solar systems we’ve managed to slash our grid power consumption and the costs that go with that, and still weather the hottest summer on record.

“It really goes to show how big a difference solar power can have, not only to your carbon footprint, but your hip pocket too.”

A 60KW solar system installed at Cooroy Library cut that facility’s grid power use by 44%, delivering a 34% reduction in power costs over the December to February period compared with last year.

Meanwhile, at The J, the new 50KW solar system slashed grid power consumption by 40%, with a 37% reduction in energy costs.

“It was a similar story at the Leisure Centre, which used 43% less power from the grid, with a 34% saving on the power bill,” Ms Nolan said.

Switching to solar power is one way Council is reducing its emissions and helping to reduce long-term electricity costs.

Acting Mayor Frank Wilkie said Council’s 2026 zero emissions goal was delivering lower costs and a cleaner environment.

“Rolling out renewable energy, upgrading older air conditioning units and switching to LED lighting are some of the ways we are reducing emissions and costs for ratepayers,” Cr Wilkie said.

“We are also focused on further reducing emissions from our landfill.”

5 April 2019