In 2022, not for profit aged care enterprise Yallambee Aged Care Services received a grant to install solar on its 120 bed Margery Cole residential aged care facility in Traralgon.

In collaboration with Gippsland Climate Change Network (GCCN), who project managed the installation, RACV Solar was selected to design and install the system through a competitive tender process. We were chosen due to our proven track record installing solar on similar facilities across the region, our local in-house workforce and price.

With financial savings identified as Yallambee’s biggest priority for the installation, we analysed the facility’s data to inform the design of a 276 kW rooftop solar system which would provide optimal return on investment.

We also looked at all rebate options available to Yallambee, including small-scale technology certificates (STCs), large-scale generation certificates (LGCs), and Victorian energy efficiency certificates (VEECs). By utilising VEECs, Yallambee will receive a rebate of approximately $105,000 after 12 months of operation for CO2 savings, far greater than either LGCs or STCs combined.

"RACV Solar answered our frequent questions promptly and did an excellent job through the installation. 90% of residents surveyed agreed there were no concerns with the workers or equipment during the installation process."

- Darren McCubbin, CEO, Gippsland Climate Change Network (GCCN)

With extensive experience installing solar in aged care settings, we know how important it is to maintain a safe and respectful environment for the residents during installation. Being mindful of noise levels and resident interaction, our team installed 552 solar panels on the roof of the Margery Cole facility.

The system, which was named RACV Solar’s 2022 installation of the year at our annual awards night, is now delivering a cost reduction of around 40% for Yallambee and, with rebates taken into account, is expected to pay itself off in just over five years.

"The solar system has surpassed expectations. It produced 108,568 kW of power in its first 110 days with a revenue of over $27,800 and a CO2 reduction of 108 tonnes. Not only is our Board and staff pleased, but 99% of our residents agreed it is very important and very good that the solar system saves money for Yallambee and over half of residents considered it important to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions."

- Darren McCubbin, CEO, Gippsland Climate Change Network (GCCN)