The McGowan Government will contribute $152,500 toward establishing a solar energy system at the Gascoyne Junction Tourist Park.
The Park will operate a 50kW AC (PV) capacity solar energy system with 240 solar panels, which will partly offset the daytime power usage.
The Gascoyne Junction Tourist Park was constructed in 2014 with financial support by the previous Government, however the community has been unable to meet the ongoing costs of operating the facility.
The Shire of Upper Gascoyne has also committed $150,000 to the project.
It is estimated the park will achieve a minimum 50 per cent supply from solar energy of total energy needs, significantly reducing the cost of providing power to the buildings.
Estimated savings on future energy consumption costs to the park’s custodian and the Shire of Upper Gascoyne are $35,000 per year.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“Our Government is stepping in to assist this project in becoming financially sustainable for the long-term, after it became clear the original Royalties for Regions-funded project imposed a cost burden that the local Shire could not sustain.
“This small community has endured difficult years, seeing drought then three floods, then collapse of tourist trade due to COVID-19.
“Significantly reduced operating energy costs will work to improve the ongoing financial sustainability of the Gascoyne Junction Tourist Park and create a strong platform for local economic recovery.
“This low cost and reliable renewable energy solution will foster economic activity through local job opportunities.”
