The Zero Net Energy Town Project is gathering momentum since launching two weeks ago. Interest from Uralla is high, and other regional towns are looking toward the project as a possible pathway to self sufficiency and energy independence. Enhar is part of a consortium working on the Zero Net Energy Town project in NSW. The project is exploring the feasibility of a town supplying all of its stationary energy and building services energy needs with nearby or onsite zero emissions energy (while remaining connected to the grid). Earlier this year Enhar led a feasibility study for Mallacoota to be able to operate as an independent microgrid during transmission line failures into the town, using a combination of solar PV, battery storage and a diesel generator. Also the small town of Yackandandah has announced its intention to launch the ”Totally Renewable Yackandandah” initiative later this month that aims to achieve the goal by 2022. Trent will be giving a brief teaser of the project and its implications after Cameron Stanley presents on the RMIT research.

Australian Solar Council Melbourne Chapter Meeting - Wed. Dec 10th

An Innovative Hybrid Solar Photovoltaic / Thermal Receiver

Melbourne Town Hall - Wednesday 10th December 6pm We welcome all solar energy installers and enthusiasts to our final Melbourne Chapter meeting for 2014. To wrap up our events for the year we have a fascinating presentation on a novel solar photovoltaic/thermal technology being developed at RMIT. As always, there will be an opportunity for further discussion and networking afterwards over refreshments. Main Presentation: an Innovative Hybrid Solar Photovoltaic / Thermal Receiver: research highlights Presenter: Dr Cameron Stanley – Research Fellow, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, RMIT University Date: Wednesday 10th December Time: Doors open at 5:30pm for a 6pm sharp start. Finish time is 8pm Venue: Melbourne Room, Melbourne Town Hall, 90-120 Swanston St, Melbourne Access: Enter from the main town Hall entrance on Swanston Street. Security staff will be on hand to guide attendees to the appropriate meeting space Parking: There are multiple high rise parking houses nearby with cheaper night rates starting from 5pm. Follow this link to find out more: http://www.greencoparking.com/find.asp Food: Sandwiches provided, juice, tea and coffee Register now for this free event at: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/australian-solar-council-melbourne-chapter-meeting-tickets-14697730307