the Y
the Y
It was a great moment at Y Learn and Swim in Brown Hill when the switch was turned on, and the 224 solar panels started producing energy for the centre.
The 99.8 kilowatt system will save at least 103 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
“We’re really excited that this is the fifth of our sites to benefit from solar panels in the last 18 months. This step continues our commitment to sustainability and clean energy, helping us move towards a more eco-friendly future,” explained Business Services Manager, Renee Collins.
“We’re always working with stakeholders to identify future opportunities to install energy initiatives at our services. It’s really rewarding and important to have these projects which support our other activities and illustrate our commitment to a more sustainable planet,” she added.
After 3 months of planning, it was exciting when the installers arrived at the Brown Hill site in August. Over a week, the children watched as the panels were lifted and fixed to the roof, sparking huge amounts of interest and many conversations.
Sam Lane, Centre Director said, “The installation of the solar panels really grabbed the curiosity of the children. It was great to be able to discuss how we incorporate sustainable practices and the steps that we are taking for their future.
We’re also received a really positive reaction from our Y Learn and Swim community.”
Located in Ballarat’s east, the centre offers kindergarten, long day care and swimming lessons, providing a unique combination under one roof to support busy families.
Keep an eye out for further developments as we continue our solar journey!
Find out more about Y Learn and Swim’s play-based kindergarten program and child centred approach here.
