Following a competitive public tender process, Autonomous Energy was selected by Hornsby Shire Council to expand the existing solar power system on Hornsby Shire Council’s Main Library. The expansion saw the solar power system increased from 20kW to 98kW. This system was carefully designed in consultation with a structural engineer to the same high standards that allowed the previous system, also designed and installed by Autonomous Energy, to famously survive a mini-tornado which affected Hornsby in November 2013.
The solar PV system was commissioned in January 2015.
Autonomous Energy solution
- The system features high-efficiency LG monocrystalline panels. These super high efficiency solar panels offer a great visual appearance along with high quality and a 25 year product warranty.
- The modules were carefully positioned to avoid any losses due to shading from the numerous pieces of existing equipment already installed on the roof.
- Solar specific, engineered mounting frames manufactured by Schletter in Germany were used, as well as inverters from SMA - the world’s leading inverter manufacturer.
- The new and old solar power systems have been integrated into an anti-islanding protection system which ensures that the solar power system will be safely turned off in the event of a power outage at the library.
- This anti-islanding protection system was carefully designed by Autonomous Energy’s in-house solar engineering team in close consultation with the Electricity Network owner, AusGrid.
- To read more about Autonomous Energy's installation of Phase 1 please click here.
What Hornsby Shire Council says
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Autonomous Energy have proven themselves to be learned engineers that possess and practise high values of sustainability, which engenders confidence in their products and workmanship. Autonomous Energy is a company that is efficient, cooperative, friendly and professional, and will go that extra mile to ensure client satisfaction.
- Dr. Rima Lauge-Kristensen, Sustainable Energy Officer, Hornsby Shire Council