Community House Mid Canterbury's new solar installation is now officially complete and fully operational, made possible through a collaborative effort with EA Networks, ElectraServe and the Ideal Foundation.

The system, valued at around $70,000, is now in place on the Community House building, helping reduce energy costs and support the long-term sustainability of the facility.

The project was managed by local electrical contractors ElectraServe, solar specialists and neighbours of Community House, funded almost entirely through the generosity of local businesses and community grants.

ElectraServe designed the system and planned the project, supplied materials at cost price and hosted a volunteer installation day where 20 staff gave up their Saturday morning to install the panels, keeping labour costs to a minimum.

EA Networks donated all 73 solar panels and carried out inspection and engineering work at no cost.

The Ideal Foundation, the charitable arm of Ideal Electrical Suppliers, contributed $7000 towards essential hardware and cabling.

EA Networks Chief Executive Onno Mulder says it's rewarding to see this project come to life.

"Seeing this system now up and running is a great outcome. It’s about making practical decisions that deliver long-term value for our community and ensuring resources are used in a way that benefits the people who rely on services like Community House."

The 40kW solar system is carefully angled to capture both morning and afternoon sunlight. These generate electricity that is converted for use within the building, with any surplus exported back to the national grid.

At the time of installation, the system was expected to generate nearly 50,000kWh of electricity per year - more than the building typically consumes. This allows for negative power bills during the summer months through energy credits and significantly reduced costs during winter.

Even in cloudy conditions, the system continues to generate power, helping Community House operate more sustainably every day.

"Supporting Community House has been a privilege for ElectraServe. Their work strengthens our district every day and we’re proud to play a part in helping reduce their operating costs so more resources can go back into the community," says ElectraServe Project Manager James Reid. "We are especially proud of our staff who volunteered their Saturday morning to help support this project."

Ideal Foundation says the collaboration highlights "a growing commitment within the local industry to support renewable energy initiatives and improve energy efficiency in community-focused facilities".

Community House is home to a wide range of organisations providing essential social and community services across Mid Canterbury.

"After just one month of operation, the electricity savings have already been significant," says Community House Facilities Manager Robbie Ross. "As electricity is one of our largest budget items, having 73 solar panels now supplying more than half of our required power is an outstanding achievement.

"Community interest in the project has been high. The live display in our front reception has sparked many conversations and helped raise awareness about the benefits of renewable energy."

Ross says Community House is "extremely grateful" for the support shown by EA Networks, ElectraServe and the Ideal Foundation.

"Their commitment has made this project possible, and its impact will be felt for many years to come."