Solar power is quietly supporting animal care and visitor facilities at Sydney Zoo, with a large onsite solar installation helping reduce energy demand at one of Western Sydney’s major attractions.
Working with energy partner EnergyAustralia, Sydney Zoo has installed 602 solar panels across eight buildings, forming a 271 kilowatt (kW) rooftop system that has been operating for close to two years. The system is now supplying a significant portion of the zoo’s electricity needs, supporting both animal habitats and day-to-day operations.
Sydney Zoo spans more than 42 acres and is home to over 4,000 animals, including Australia’s largest reptile and nocturnal house. With energy-intensive requirements such as climate-controlled enclosures, specialised lighting and heated water systems, electricity consumption is a major operational consideration.
According to Chris Rivett, Chief Commercial Officer at Sydney Zoo, the solar installation aligns closely with the zoo’s sustainability goals.
“Caring for exotic and native animals requires a lot of energy,” Rivett said.
“These solar panels are a practical step towards more responsible energy management across the site.”
The system’s output highlights its impact. In 2024, the solar installation generated approximately 325 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity, with a further 261 MWh produced so far in 2025. This renewable generation helps power heating lamps for animal enclosures, hot water systems used for animal care, and specialised lighting designed to replicate natural day-night cycles in reptile and nocturnal habitats.
Projects such as Sydney Zoo demonstrate how commercial-scale rooftop solar can power diverse public facilities, beyond traditional industrial, retail and household settings.