Solar installation contract awarded to local Aboriginal business

January 21 2021

Horizon Power has awarded the contract for the installation of more than 300 kilowatts (kW) of rooftop solar on Shire of Derby / West Kimberley buildings to local Derby Aboriginal business Remote Solar Solutions.  

Horizon Power has been working closely with the Shire of Derby / West Kimberley to identify and develop energy solutions that assist in reducing the overall cost of electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, individual rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems will be installed on 13 public buildings including a solar shade shelter that will be erected at the Derby Pool.

The solar systems will save the Shire more than $130,000 in electricity costs each year and reduce greenhouse emissions by more than 230 tonnes per year. The project is part of a broader portfolio of investments Horizon Power is delivering as part of its role in supporting the State Government’s WA Recovery Plan.

Remote Solar Solutions will engage the Winun Ngari Aboriginal Corporation to source local recruits to fill two newly-created Trades Assistant positions.  

Horizon Power CEO, Stephanie Unwin, said the project is another example of how Horizon Power is delivering on its strategic initiatives by delivering customer-tailored energy solutions and widening community access to renewable energy, while maintaining a commitment to stimulating local communities by engaging local contractors and suppliers.

“I am delighted to announce this important project will be carried out by Remote Solar Solutions, which is a suitably-qualified, locally-based, Aboriginal-owned and operated company with an excellent track record of delivering renewable energy solutions in the Derby / West Kimberley region,” Ms Unwin said.

“The Shire of Derby / West Kimberley’s remoteness and rugged environment make it a difficult and expensive region to supply energy to. By installing roof-mounted solar PV systems across the Shire’s portfolio of buildings, we will dramatically reduce their energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.”

Solar PV systems will be installed on the Shire’s Derby Administration Building and Library, Derby Airport, Derby Child Care Centre, Derby Depot, Derby Development Services, Derby Pool, Derby Recreation Centre, Derby Toy Library, Derby Youth Centre, Fitzroy Crossing Airport, Fitzroy Crossing Depot, Fitzroy Crossing Oval and Pool and Fitzroy Crossing Visitor’s Centre between March and June 2021.

Underlining its ongoing commitment to the Derby / West Kimberley region, Horizon Power will also replace more than 820 street lights in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing with low-emitting, smart LED technology and install a rooftop solar and battery storage system at Derby Hospital in 2021.

Learn more about the projects Horizon Power is delivering in support of WA’s economic recovery at https://renewtheregions.com.au

Media enquiries: 1800 799 745