Innovation fund project - Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park
Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park in Ngongotaha, Rotorua has converted its hot water system to solar energy, setting them up for great savings on their hot water bill. Owners Michael and Jeanette Thorne found it an easy decision to convert to solar. "We anticipate the solar hot water system will reduce water heating costs by up to 75 per cent" said Michael. "Even over the winter we found that the solar collectors are contributing 55 per cent of the energy to the water heating system, which is a great result".
Before their switch to solar, the holiday parks' power bills were over $1,500 per month. They also had to contend with the smelly fumes of a hot water heating coal burner, which belched over 3,000kg of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year.
The Thorne's had been evaluating renewable energy options for some time. They see their switch to solar as part of their commitment to environmental and economic sustainability, and contributing to a sustainable tourism sector in New Zealand.
The 27m2 solar water heating and storage system (with electrical backup) was designed by Ian Robbie of Sunzrotex. "An important design feature of the system is storage of hot water to minimise heat loss, and measures to protect the system from frosts, which are common in Rotorua. Frost protection for the system gives optimal performance," said Ian Robbie.
Waiteti Trout Stream Holiday Park is also happy to provide information on their experience, and visits are welcome by appointment.
Please contact stay@waiteti.com or (07) 3575255 for further details.
