PORT Macquarie ranks as the ninth highest electorate in NSW for solar uptake, as regional communities continue to drive the state’s renewable energy transition.
The latest data, released by the NSW Government, shows households and businesses in regional NSW account for nine of the top ten electorates for rooftop solar installations.
The Oxley electorate – which includes communities such as Wauchope and Comboyne – came in eighth in the rankings, reinforcing the Mid North Coast’s growing commitment to clean energy.
A total of 19,457 solar systems have been installed in the Port Macquarie electorate, while 19,790 have been installed in Oxley.
Across the state, more than one million homes and businesses now have rooftop solar systems installed, representing around a third of all NSW homes.
Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe said regional communities were setting the pace.
“From the Far West to the Northern Rivers, regional NSW is leading the charge on rooftop solar,” she said.
“In the final quarter of last year, solar farms and rooftop solar provided 32 percent of our state’s electricity.
“Families and businesses are saving on their bill with solar, and the highest concentration is in the regions and Western Sydney.”
When the sun is shining, rooftop solar is now producing more power than all of the state’s coal fired power stations.
The figures reflect a broader regional trend, with families and businesses turning to solar to reduce power bills and improve energy independence.
News Of The Area was informed by the minister’s office that an average four-person household with a 6.6kW solar system could save up to $1,400 per year.
By Sis HIGGINS
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