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Media Release

5 April 2016

GOING SOLAR ON THE WEST COAST

By YHA New Zealand

Franz Josef – YHA Franz Josef put their commitment to sustainability into action with the installation of solar panels on their West Coast property.

YHA Franz Josef undertook a major environmental and long-term investment with project partner Sunshine Solar by installing 108 metres₂ of solar panels on the Franz Josef hostel roof to generate power and to heat the hostel’s water.

YHA New Zealand Manager, Operations, Simon Cartwright, says, “Using innovative technology to provide a steady supply of clean and renewable energy fits into YHA Franz Josef’s long-term plan. It also continues YHA New Zealand’s longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism, which is increasingly important to our guests and staff.”

Sunshine Solar’s goal is to help the hostel reduce CO₂ emissions by 5.5 tonnes per year, power usage by 6% and gas usage for heating water by 20%. On an average day, the photovoltaic solar panels will generate 125 kilowatts directly from the sun.

Sunshine Solar Operations Manager, Matt Finlay, said they were thrilled to partner with YHA New Zealand at the Franz Josef property. He says, “This is one of the largest solar systems to be installed on the West Coast, and certainly the largest in Franz Josef. We were excited to be part of that and to meet, and possibly exceed, YHA New Zealand’s expectations.”

Mitsubishi Electric Black Diamond Solar PV Panels were selected for this project. Designed to specifically withstand extreme weather conditions, these premium panels are ideal for the rugged environment that surrounds YHA Franz Josef.

Sunshine Solar will install a Splash Monitoring System in the guest lounge in April. This system will allow guests to observe, and staff to monitor and control, the use of resources across the hostel. The system provides real time temperatures, weather data, system operation and heat collected through the solar panels.

YHA Franz Josef offers secure accommodation nestled into West Coast rainforest. http://www.yha.co.nz/yha-franz-josef/

Tags: solar, south island, west coast