The launch of a new solar-powered system on Great Barrier Island has been a success.
Dozens of people turned up for the celebrations in early April, which included performances from the local school, speeches and a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a few words from Mayor Phil Goff.
Great Barrier Local Board has adopted a solar-powered system for the council facilities at Claris in an important step towards cleaner, greener living.
Solar power will fully run the service centre, local board office, dentist and morgue, and will provide back-up power for the health centre.
The system cost just under $300,000 and was paid for by Auckland Council’s One Local Initiative Fund.
The solar panels will provide a cleaner and more renewable system for the buildings, which until now had been powered by diesel generators.
The aim is for solar to provide 100 per cent of the energy needs of the offices from day one, but the generators will remain in case they are needed.
Great Barrier Island has no reticulated power grid or any plans to join the national network.
There will also be an electric vehicle for the island and an electric bike.
