Solar power is a clean and cost-effective way to generate renewable energy and in August, Torrens Grove Retirement Village’s Residents Committee unanimously agreed to install 62 solar panels on the community centre roof.
Chair of the Torrens Grove Finance Sub-Committee Adrian Johnston said that the previous committee president floated the idea in 2015 and although it has taken time to come to fruition, he is pleased with the outcome.
“Solar power is sustainable and it’s also an efficient way for us to cut our power bills,” Adrian says.
“The Torrens Grove Residents Committee asked the Finance Sub-Committee to deal with the logistics of the solar panel project.
“Once both of these committees voted and agreed on a process to move forward, the Residents Committee then asked the residents to vote on the proposal at their annual general meeting.
“All votes were unanimous so we sent out an expression of interest to five commercial organisations, including the incumbent energy supplier.
“We decided to accept a package that involved a five percent deposit with a two-year interest free loan at a total cost of $19,000.
The 62 solar panels will generate enough electricity to power the community facilities, including air-conditioning and security lights.
“The solar panels will reduce our carbon footprint and with an estimated annual saving of $5,000 and it’s only going to take about four years for the project to pay for itself,” Adrian said.
