Australia’s First Solar Garden Ready for Harvest

Australia’s First Solar Garden Blooms in Grong Grong

In the NSW Riverina region, near the highway in Grong Grong, Australia’s inaugural solar garden is on the verge of reaping its rewards. The 1.5-megawatt project, known as the Haystacks Solar Garden, is set to benefit 175 solar enthusiasts by offering credits on their electricity bills in the coming weeks.

This initiative aims to provide a new avenue for renters and apartment residents across Australia who have previously been excluded from the solar energy market. Inspired by successful projects in the United States and Germany, work on the Haystacks Solar Garden commenced in January 2020.

Empowering Those Locked Out of Solar Ownership

Kim Mallee, the project director at Community Power Agency, highlighted the goal of extending the benefits of owning rooftop solar panels to individuals who have faced barriers in accessing solar energy. This includes renters, apartment dwellers, and property owners with unsuitable roofs for solar installation.

The innovative approach of the project involved 175 investors, referred to as solar gardeners, who contributed to its funding. Additionally, support from the NSW government Regional Community Energy Fund and equity from the Grong Grong Solar Farm played a crucial role in bringing the solar garden to life.

Pioneering a New Model for Solar Investment

The project’s unique method of recognising individual investments through co-operative capital units sets a precedent for future solar initiatives. Energy Locals’ involvement in processing credits further solidifies the project’s innovative approach to solar energy distribution.

Ms Mallee emphasised the importance of transparency by sharing the project’s processes and solutions in a public report. This transparency aims to guide and inspire other organisations to explore and invest in similar solar garden projects.

Griffith University’s associate professor Tim Nelson, a member of the Climate Council, expressed optimism about the future of solar gardens in Australia. With a growing interest in solar energy and ample space in the country, he foresees an expansion of such projects.

While a significant portion of Australian households already benefit from solar panels, external solar investments offer a viable solution for those unable to install the technology on their properties. Mr Nelson also suggested that individuals excluded from traditional solar options could explore investing in green energy through their retail providers.

The successful establishment of Australia’s first solar garden in Grong Grong sets a precedent for future sustainable energy projects across the country. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, solar gardens offer a promising solution for expanding access to renewable energy sources.