Tamworth Regional Council To Vote On More Solar

Solar panels proposed for Council HQ – Image: Public Domain

Tamworth Regional Council is considering a $248,000 solar energy and LED project that will reportedly save it  $84,000 a year on electricity bills.

Based on those figures, what looks to be a simple payback of 3 years no doubt makes it a very attractive proposition.

Council will vote on the proposal, which would see solar panels installed on Ray Walsh House and the building’s lighting upgraded to LED technology, at a meeting today.

A Council document indicates there is sufficient space on the roof for a PV array of 38kW capacity. While a larger system could be installed, future potential requirements relating to heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems and/or more telecommunication equipment need to be taken into consideration.

“The energy savings from this project is the equivalent to the approximate energy used in 21 standard homes,” states Tracey Carr, Council’s Sustainability Coordinator.

“This energy reduction would prevent the release of 402 tonnes of CO2 emissions to the atmosphere per annum.”

The project would be partially funded by an internal loan from the Council’s general fund; to be repaid from the energy cost savings.

Tamworth Regional Council has tinkered with solar power previously, having installed modules as part of a trial at the Swan Street Pump Station. The trial was deemed a success, with the 20kW solar array saving $4,906 in electricity costs and generating 24,700kW of electricity over a 12 month period.

According to a report published late last year, Council will also consider funding two more solar power systems at the Westdale Wastewater Treatment Plant. It is also considering installation of a 500kW solar panel array at the Effluent Reuse Farm at New Winton.

As well as Council, the people of Tamworth appear to be fans of solar energy too; with 2,866 solar panel systems representing nearly 12 megawatts of capacity installed in the 2340 postcode.

If you live in the region and are considering installing PV and/or batteries, check out our listing and reviews of Tamworth solar panel installers, or submit your details for three solar quotes from trusted companies.

Tamworth is a city in northeast New South Wales that is home to around 42,000 people. It’s probably best known for the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Tamworth Regional Council, one of the largest in inland New South Wales, was established in March 2004 with the amalgamation of Barraba, Manilla, Nundle and Parry shires and the city of Tamworth.