Camp owners sold on solar energy

On a fine day in Naseby, Larchview Camping Ground owners Tracy and Matthew de Woeps can be found measuring and pricing the sun as a commodity.

The couple recently spent $250,000 upgrading the camping ground amenity block, which is now powered by solar panels from Germany.

After moving to Naseby in December 2006, Mr and Mrs de Woeps felt compelled to better the environment through sustainable business practice.

In May, out went the old diesel boiler, and in went a purpose-built set of solar panels.

"The old diesel burner chewed through diesel like a hot knife through butter and its emissions were terrible for the environment.

When we decided to upgrade the amenity block we decided to make it as green as possible, within reason," Mr de Woeps said.

Insulation and double-glazing were installed, and a log burner replaced an old open fire.

"The only thing left from the old building was the walls. We even replaced the roof," Mrs de Woeps said.

The couple received a grant from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (ECCA), which helped them to install the alternative energy.

The pair said cost savings to date were incredible, and they wanted to encourage other Naseby businesses to follow suit with more sustainable practices.

"We've had a lot of interest from the community," Mrs de Woeps said.

While initial installation costs for solar energy were considered high, she said the panels would most likely pay for themselves over the next few years.

Back-up energy came from a gas system, which was relatively clean-burning, she said.

Easy monitoring and pricing were an additional advantage of the solar and gas system.

"We estimate we can power new toilets and showers in all our chalets through the panels we've got, as well as eight additional bathrooms and about 80% of our hot water. We can add panels in the future if we need them," Mr de Woeps said.