Oct 26 2012
Today marks a new milestone for Australia’s private businesses seeking heightened energy efficiency: the unveiling of what’s believed to be one of the largest privately funded solar installations in the nation , installed by SPS Energy and now operational in Caloundra, Queensland. The Honourable Mark McArdle, Queensland’s Minister for Energy and Water Supply, officiated at the commissioning celebration.
SPS Energy, based in Eumundi, is a preeminent supplier of energy management and renewable energy solutions across Australia.
The 80kWatt solar array is located on the rooftop of the Caloundra-based Saddlery Trading Company (www.saddlerytrading.com), and powers 75kWatts of inverter capacity.
Saddlery Trading Company (STC), family-owned wholesalers of equestrian products, first explored a solar solution after experiencing excessive energy costs. STC then chose SPS Energy, based on the solar installers’ track record of leadership in delivering savings to clients through sensible, renewable solutions.
Founder of STC, Greg Grant, said after investigation of the process gaps causing the energy expenditure, SPS Energy provided a renewable energy displacement component, taking the STC site close to energy neutral.
“The installation has already delivered benefits for our business: an energy consumption decline of over 60% in the first billing period after commissioning, followed by further reductions in subsequent periods,” Mr Grant said.
“As a family-owned business, it’s critical for us to keep an eye on the bottom line, while integrating environmentally conscious practices.
“Our family business is proof that solar power can deliver savings, efficiency, and sustainability.”
The solar array provides STC with certainty of power costs into the future and provision for even greater energy autonomy, if needed.
Owner and founder of SPS Energy, Jock Howard, said he was thrilled to collaborate with Saddlery Trading Company on this installation.
“This project reinforces that increasing the number of private solar power installations across Australia can directly impact profitability,” Mr Howard said.
Mr Howard also cited the key role that partners Energex, Suntech, Clean Energy Council (CEC), SMA Solar Technology AG and Power Partners played in the success of the installation.
“Our trusted partners were key drivers in helping make this massive installation a reality. The process required to deliver this level of grid demand mitigation was one of ongoing dialogue,” he said.
“From consulting on feasibility to providing creative solutions, our partners shared our vision for bringing renewable solutions to family businesses, for which we’re immensely grateful.”