Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia (HWCA) is embarking on its Hunter Wetlands Solar project in partnership with the Clean Energy Association of Newcastle and Surrounds (CLEANaS) to install 48 solar panels on the roof of the Centre in Shortland, Newcastle.

“We are going solar and we invite members of the public to be part of this,” Stuart Blanch, CEO of Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia, said.

“For a $500 tax deductible donation businesses can sponsor a solar panel on our roof. Our goal is to raise $20,000 in donations by 30 June so we can install the panels in July.”

“HWCA are a well-respected and established environmental, educational and recreational resource for all of the people of the Hunter and schemes like this will help to keep the organisation alive,” Stuart concluded.

CLEANaS Chair Alec Roberts believes the centre is well placed to benefit from solar.

“The centre is ideal for solar energy use, as it uses most of its electricity during the day when the solar panels will be producing electricity, and it has good roof space,” Alec said.

“The centre will save money on power bills and reduce its carbon footprint.”

CLEANaS are active in the region initiating community based renewable energy projects with the goal of 100 per cent renewables as a practical response climate change. They have had success in developing toolkits for other community energy groups to use and instigating solar installations on the Hunter Surf Life Saving Clubs.

Sponsors will be acknowledged on a sign in the HWCA Visitors Centre, Shortland, and receive rewards for different levels of sponsorship, which are also available to businesses.

Any businesses who would like to know more are urged to contact HWCA direct on 4951 6466 or visit the website.