Junee Rec Centre to shine with $360K solar power overhaul

A LANDMARK renewable energy project is set to transform the Junee Recreation and Aquatic Centre, with a 99kW rooftop solar array and advanced battery storage system promising to deliver significant savings and a smaller environmental footprint.

Hundreds of high-efficiency solar panels will be installed across the centre’s expansive roof in a $360,000 upgrade scheduled to begin in August and wrap up by May 2026.

The project will also include the installation of a 60kW battery system, a dual-port electric vehicle (EV) charging station, and modern pump control hardware to maximise energy efficiency.

It’s a bold move designed to tackle the centre’s soaring energy costs, which currently sit at $100,000 annually for gas and a further $64,000 for electricity.

Council expects the solar and battery installation to significantly reduce these expenses, easing budget pressure while boosting the town’s renewable credentials.

The 99kW rooftop array will make full use of the centre’s ample roof space, generating enough electricity to power the facility during daylight hours, while excess energy will be stored in the 60kW battery for use during peak periods or at night.

Together, these components form a hybrid system that can dramatically reduce reliance on the electricity grid and potentially offset up to 80–100% of the centre’s power costs.

According to Junee Shire Council’s chief financial officer, Luke Taberner, the benefits go well beyond cost savings.

In his report presented to Council’s ordinary meeting held Tuesday, April 15, Taberner said the installation will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the centre’s need for fossil fuel-based energy.

“This project will provide considerable benefits to Council for years to come,” Taberner said.

“It will enable Council to reduce its reliance on gas and use electricity from the solar field and battery to substantially offset electricity costs while also being able to charge EV’s.”

“It will save Council money, reduce greenhouse emissions, and enhance one of Council’s most important assets.”

According to Taberner, “the expertise of the Director of Engineering Services will be used to manage the project,” while “Chargeworks Pty Ltd, a Wagga-based renewable technology company, will be used to establish a scope of works and provide a specific technical design.”

Importantly, Junee ratepayers won’t foot the entire bill.

Just over a third of the cost—$137,000—will come from Council’s own budget, with the remaining $223,000 secured through grant funding.