Norfolk Island Electricity System Improvements and Green Energy Rollout

Key Deliverables:

• Dynamic pricing model: Integration of a dynamic pricing model that incentivises residents to utilise solar power during peak production times, resulting in cost savings.
• Island-wide infrastructure: Gardel Electrical & Solar coordinated the island-wide rollout of 1,600 smart meters, enabling real-time energy usage data collection and facilitating the implementation of a dynamic pricing model.
• Sales and installation: Gardel Electrical & Solar facilitated the sale, installation and servicing of subsidised solar and battery solutions for over 200 of the island’s 1,220 private dwellings. This included the installation of 3337 solar panels and 2.5Mwh of battery storage across 200 properties. 

Project Highlights:

• Reduced diesel dependence: The project significantly decreased Norfolk Island’s dependence on diesel, resulting in a reduced environmental footprint.
• Lower electrical costs: The installation of over 175 solar and battery systems collectively lowered the cost of electricity for all island residents by 30%.
• Smart grid infrastructure: The implementation of smart meters and dynamic pricing established a foundation for a more intelligent and responsive grid system.
• Community partnership: Gardel Electrical & Solar’s commitment extended beyond energy expertise. Three staff members relocated to Norfolk Island, with additional staff working on the project throughout the year on 10 day swings. This fostered knowledge transfer through collaboration with local electricians who assisted with meter installations.  
• Gardel Electrical & Solar further strengthened community ties by sponsoring the Norfolk Island Golf Club, the local netball team’s journey to the Pacific Games and the Norfolk Island Fishing Club.

Project Logistics:

The successful execution of this project on a remote island required significant logistical planning. Gardel Electrical & Solar coordinated the shipment of over 20 containers of panels, inverters, and batteries to the island along with necessary vehicles and equipment from Brisbane.

Project Significance:

The successful execution of the Norfolk Island project demonstrates Gardel Electrical & Solar’s capabilities in delivering complex island grid modernisation and energy efficiency projects. The year-long project showcases the team’s capabilities in:

• Subsidised solar & battery solutions: Facilitating the sale and installation of government-supported renewable energy systems.
• Smart meter implementation: Deploying smart meters for real-time energy data collection and grid management.
• Dynamic pricing model development: assisted creation of dynamic pricing structures that incentivise renewable energy usage.
• Remote island project management: Demonstrating expertise in logistics and project execution in remote locations.
• Community collaboration: Fostering knowledge transfer and building community ownership through local partnerships.

Interested to learn more about our Norfolk Island green energy transition? Contact our team.