The sun will shine on Queenscliff’s Cottage By the Sea following the installation of a solar system and an electric vehicle (EV) charging unit which will together reduce its energy bills by almost a third.
Global low carbon energy and services company, ENGIE commissioned the fitting of the solar system and EV charger to the Queenscliff based charity using its subsidiary, Simply Energy.
The 22.4kW rooftop solar system will generate enough power to meet approximately 30 per cent per cent of Cottage by the Sea’s annual energy needs. An EV charging unit has also been installed, in anticipation of the organisation switching some of its vehicles to EVs in the near future.
Cottage by the Sea is an Australian children’s charity that aims to give more children more opportunities to have fun, be inspired and broaden their horizons. Founded in 1890 in Queenscliff, it provides tailored programs within a holiday environment.
“The responsibility lies with us all as individuals and organisations to do what we can to reduce our impact on our beautiful planet,” Cottage by the Sea chief executive Adam Wake said.
“This is more than just funding, it has provided the impetus to help Cottage by the Sea move into this space, to use our large roof, and to create a carbon free facility with confidence. This all has a significant educational benefit for the children on our programs.”
Simply Energy chief executive Shannon Hyde said while there were significant short-term cost advantages arising from the installation, environmental and educational benefits would also flow in the longer term.
“Cottage by the Sea do incredible work with children to keep them engaged in education and community and most importantly have some fun,” he said.
“We’re hoping the solar system and EV charging infrastructure can help to reduce their energy bills and free up some funding for future projects that benefit the families they support.”
