Donated by Kyocera Solar and installed by local installer, Solar Sparx, the 2 kW solar photovoltaic system will generate an average of 8 kWh per day of electricity, potentially reducing the community centre’s electricity costs by an average of $350 per year based upon the general cost of power. Coupled with the ACT’s gross feed-in tariff, it is estimated that the system will generate approximately $1,500 worth of power each year for the next 20 years.

The system will help the Kippax UnitingCare Community Centre in its work to provide a range of valuable services and to support those disadvantaged in the community.

ACT Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water Simon Corbell helped to launch the project.

“The fact that the community centre now has the benefit of the solar array highlights that it’s not just government that realises the very important work that is done here, it’s also industry players like Kyocera,” said Mr Corbell.

Article continues below…

The Minister also said that the ACT’s gross feed-in tariff, coupled with events such as ATRAA, confirmed that it is the solar capital of Australia.

“The panels that you see here will be eligible for a payment under the feed-in tariff arrangement, which is already paying dividends in our community. Since the tariff commenced in March, the ACT has seen a 24 per cent increase in the amount of solar panels installed on houses and business around the territory,” he said.

He added that alternative power technology is not so alternative today.

“Solar is now a mainstream power choice for our community; and it will need to be if we are to address the challenges of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions in our city.”

Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Matthew Warren said the project was a useful reminder of the environmental challenges faced around the globe.

“I don’t think we should lose sight of the deeper challenge, that the work that’s done in places like UnitingCare Kippax is part of the process of bringing people from the wider community, so they can see this technology and enjoy participating in these wider debates,” he said.

Kyocera National Manager Mark Shakeshaft said “It’s been a fantastic opportunity for us to make a donation to the UnitingCare Kippax Community Centre on something that’s going to return some true value to the community, reduce the running costs of the organisation and allow them to put some money to further the great work that they do.”

Mr Shakeshaft was also happy that the ATRAA 09 conference was being held in Canberra, being the first state or territory in Australia to implement a gross feed-in tariff.

UnitingCare Kippax Team Leader Gordon Ramsay said that the funds raised from the system will ease the financial pressure that our services are under. The centre is now looking to set up a community garden.

“UnitingCare Kippax is particularly concerned about creating sustainable communities and is delighted to receive this donation. The cost savings will mean that more people are able to benefit from our services,” said Mr Ramsay.