To power their Port Fitzroy and Okiwi bases on pristine and peaceful Great Barrier Island, the Department of Conservation was using four diesel generators. As part of its sustainability programme, DOC wanted a cleaner energy solution for its Great Barrier operation. After careful consideration, Vector’s innovative solution was chosen to provide the solar power conversion.

“The Great Barrier project will be one of the largest off grid solar power installations in the country. There will be 138 solar panels providing at least 80% of the power needed to run DOC’s bases at Port Fitzroy and Okiwi.

The two solar power systems will save money as they’re expected to reduce DOC’s diesel consumption on Great Barrier by up to 90%. Plus we won’t have the high cost of maintaining the ageing diesel generators.

In total the solar power conversion will cut our direct operating costs for our Warkworth Great Barrier Area by about $45,000 a year. And the lower maintenance required will free up staff time to work on other conservation priorities.”

Tim Brandenburg
DOC’s Warkworth and Great Barrier Island Area Manager