Dreamworld, one of the most prominent Australian summer destinations, has partnered with Origin Zero to successfully implement the largest solar system ever installed in an Australian theme park.
The completion of this 708-kilowatt installation represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and embracing renewable energy solutions.
Situated on the Gold Coast, Dreamworld has been a staple of Australian entertainment for over 40 years, offering visitors a range of rides, slides, and wildlife attractions.
The collaboration with Origin Zero marks a deliberate effort to integrate environmentally conscious initiatives into the park’s operations.
The solar system, featuring 2000 solar panels and 13 inverters, is expected to generate approximately 21 per cent of Dreamworld’s annual electricity consumption. This reduction in reliance on conventional energy sources aligns with the park’s commitment to sustainable practices and minimisation of its environmental impact.
Notably, the solar array will play a crucial role in powering major attractions such as The Giant Drop, The Claw, and Steel Taipan, demonstrating the practical application of renewable energy in the operation of large-scale entertainment facilities.
“Ardent Leisure has been exploring the best avenues to reduce its environmental footprint at Dreamworld and this new solar installation and partnership with Origin marks a significant step in that process,” Ardent Leisure’s Director of Commercial and Facilities, Dwayne Clark, said.
“Given our location and the space we have on-site to maximise solar solutions, it became a simple decision for our business. We identified the longer-term reduction in energy costs far outweighed the upfront installation cost of the solar panels, as well as having a significant environmental benefit.”
Origin Zero managed the installation process. Origin Zero is a specialised team within Origin dedicated to assisting Australian businesses in optimising energy usage, achieving cost efficiencies, reducing emissions, and progressing towards their net-zero objectives.
“We’ve worked closely with Dreamworld to understand their business and utilise data and insights to identify the right solutions to suit their energy needs and ambitions,” Origin Zero’s General Manager of Business Development and Advisory, Liam McWhirter, said.
“Dreamworld’s energy use is heaviest during the day, which makes the theme park perfectly placed to reap the benefits of solar – particularly when you consider Queensland weather.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Dreamworld to support their transition to cleaner and more cost-efficient energy solutions.”
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.