Magnetic Island - a magnet for saving money and saving energy

Townsville: Magnetic Island will soon be projected onto the world stage as a state-of-the art solar suburb.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said that Greenpeace would feature the island’s ground-breaking solar trial in a new documentary, to bring more people around to the benefits of solar power.

“It’s about tackling climate change and delivering a cleaner, greener energy future for Queensland,” Mr Wilson said.

The Minister is in Townsville with the Premier, her Cabinet Ministers and heads of government departments for the Bligh Government’s 13^th Community Cabinet Meeting.

“Our solar cities trial on Magnetic Island is delivering real benefits for the environment and the community,” he said.

“Many households in the solar trial are saving up to 30% on their electricity bills. They’re saving money and helping to save the environment with clean energy powered by the sun.

Minister Wilson said that in a mass roll out of solar systems by Ergon Energy, Magnetic Island would be transformed into a truly solar suburb.

“We’re investing $15 million into this world-class solar city initiative, along with $15 million from the federal government and funds from consortium partners including Townsville City Council.

“Part of our contribution has helped fund the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal’s solar PV system.

“It’s an exciting project. It shows how communities can harness solar energy and be more energy-efficient in their daily lives.

“The solar suburb will save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 50,000 tonnes over the next seven years. That’s the same as taking 1700 cars off the road for the same period.

Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds commended households and businesses for taking part in the solar trial.

“They’ve been very enthusiastic about making the switch to solar. They’re helping to create a blueprint for future sustainable energy use, and the world will soon be watching,” Mr Reynolds said.

Ergon Energy hopes to install up to 500 solar PV panels, free of charge, on homes and businesses across Magnetic Island.

Minister Wilson said since the installation began in May last year, 42 panels had been connected to the grid.

“Each panel is producing 8 kilowatt hours of power a day for the main grid – all up, that’s enough to power 18 households for a day.

Mr Wilson said more than 800 light bulbs had also been replaced with energy-efficient ones.

“Simply by changing bulbs, households and businesses on Magnetic Island have been able to reduce their energy lighting load by half.

“Other energy savings have been made through free energy assessments in local homes and businesses.

The Minister said smart meters were also being installed right across the island.

“When smart meters are used alongside in-house eco-meters, households can work out their power usage and the cost of their electricity.

“This is about government working in partnership with the community and industry to tackle climate change head on. It’s a win for the environment and a win for the community,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819