Swimming in sunshine at the Moss Vale Aquatic Centre
Wingecarribee Shire Council has this week commissioned its largest ever solar renewable energy project at the Moss Vale War Memorial Aquatic Centre.
The commissioning follows a two week installation of a 344 solar panel roof-mounted system at the Aquatic Centre.
The electricity generated by the 100 kilowatt solar system will be used to supplement the daytime energy needs of the Centre.
Council’s Environment and Health Systems Coordinator Therese Smart said the project would help slash the electricity bills at the Aquatic Centre.
“Early calculations suggest the installation will generate approximately 145,000 kilowatts of electricity each year,” Ms Smart said.
“This means that almost 16 per cent of the Centre’s annual electricity consumption will come from renewable energy as a result of this installation.
“The solar energy produced is set to increase as we head towards the longer daylight hours of spring and summer,” Ms Smart said.
The installation of the solar panels on the Aquatic Centre follows similar renewable energy projects carried out on Council’s Southern Highlands Regional Livestock Exchange, the Southern Highlands Welcome Centre, Bowral Library, the Mittagong Rural Fire Service Building and the Resource Recovery Centre.
“Energy Management is a focus area for Council and the Aquatic Centre project is a great example of Council reducing our ongoing electricity costs by embracing sustainable energy solutions,” Ms Smart added.
The installation was carried out during the month of May with all costs associated with the project expected to be recouped within just four years.
The Moss Vale War Memorial Aquatic Centre is located at 8 Kirkham Street in Moss Vale.