Solar heating saves money

The Peninsula Leisure Centre has installed a solar pool heating system which is expected to be significantly cheaper than gas and electric heating systems.

Gosford Council's leisure coordinator Mr Anthony Burling said that the solar heating system would provide a rapid return on investment.

"Heating our three pools, spa, sauna and steam room takes up a large portion of our overall energy use.

"Our investigations have shown that solar pool heating is the most effective renewable energy available today.

"We are anticipating major energy savings of 140 tonnes of CO2 emissions and approximately $50,000 in electricity annually.

"The system we have installed is state-of-the-art and includes a total of 37,440 heating tubes on the roof, which if laid end to end would stretch 117kms.

"The installation of this system was made possible with a $150,000 grant from the NSW State Government's Waste and Sustainability Improvement Payments Program.

"Residents can now enjoy our facilities knowing that we are doing our bit for the environment," said Mr Burling.

Gosford mayor Cr Laurie Maher has cited the installation of solar panels on the Peninsula Leisure Centre as a demonstration of Gosford Council's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Calling on residents and business owners to turn off lights for Earth Hour on March 31, Cr Maher said: "Gosford Council has been working toward lessening its impact on our environment.

"A recent energy saving initiative is the installation of solar thermal collectors on the Peninsula Leisure Centre's roof, which will be the primary source of heating for the pool and heat pumps will be used as a backup.

"The centre is one of Council's top energy users so this upgrade will make huge savings per annum and will see a big a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions annually," said mayor Cr Maher.

Cr Maher said Gosford Council helped to celebrate Earth Hour by ensuring all non-essential lighting was turned off in Council's main administration building in Gosford.

Media Release, 28 Mar 2012 Laurie Maher, Gosford Council Media Release, 28 Mar 2012 Anthony Burling, Gosford Council