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Drouin wastewater treatment plant instals Australia's largest floating solar array of 644 panels as part of Gippsland Water renewable energy plan

Gippsland Water launches Australia's largest floating solar array at Drouin wastewater treatment plant, part of their renewable energy commitment. It powers the plant efficiently, aiding in cost reduction and emission reduction goals.

By news@gippsland - 19th April 2024 - Back to News

Gippsland Water has switched on the largest floating solar array in Australia at the Drouin wastewater treatment plant. The 350-kilowatt system features 644 individual solar panels and floats on one of the plant's treatment lagoons.

Gippsland Water's new floating solar array sits atop one of Drouin wastewater treatment plant's lagoons

Solar power progress

Acting managing director Simon Aquilina said the solar panels were part of the organisation's commitment to renewable energy targets. "These solar panels will help us reach our renewable energy target of 100 percent by 2025 and contribute to achieving our target of net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2030. They also positively impact the wastewater treatment process by reducing evaporation."

"Solar energy helps reduce our operating costs and puts downward pressure on customer water bills. It also helps reduce our emissions. At peak capacity, the solar array can fully power the treatment plant, producing enough kilowatts to power nearly 90 homes per day," said Simon.

Solar innovation initiatives

Gippsland Water is undertaking several innovative projects on the path to net-zero, with solar power a major focus. Last year a 1,200-kilowatt solar array was switched on at the Gippsland Water Factory in Maryvale. Drouin is the eighth Gippsland Water facility to be partially powered by solar energy.

The floating solar panels are part of a $55 million upgrade to the Drouin wastewater treatment plant. While the upgraded plant became operational in 2022, the floating solar panels are one of the finishing touches. To learn more about how Gippsland Water is caring for the local environment for future generations, visit Gippsland Water - Caretakers for tomorrow website.

Pictures from Gippsland Water website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com