The City of Melbourne will install 1,550 solar panels at the Queen Victoria Market precinct, generating up to 900,000kw of carbon neutral energy per year, or enough to power 205 homes.
The 1,550 solar panels are part of the Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal Program, with 650 already installed at the site, and a further 900 expected to become operational in the coming months.
The new solar power system will reduce the market’s electricity bill by $100,000 a year and reduce yearly carbon emissions by over 1,300t.
Following the project’s completion in mid-2023, the market will be home to 3,765m2 of solar panels, which would cover the surface of three Olympic swimming pools.
City of Melbourne Lord Mayor, Sally Capp, said the project would play a significant role in the City’s goal of becoming net-zero by 2040.
“We’re doing everything we can to reduce our environmental impact and build resilience to ensure Melbourne is one of the world’s most sustainable cities,” Mayor Capp said.
“Our major investment in the Queen Victoria Market precinct will play a significant role as we build towards becoming a zero-carbon City by 2040.
“We’re championing sustainability through our renewal program by incorporating solar power, stormwater harvesting and on-site organic waste recycling – making it easier for traders to run their businesses, while reducing the market precinct’s environmental footprint.
“The market’s new solar power system will cut costs and carbon emissions, providing flow-on benefits for traders, the environment and the City of Melbourne.”
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