Collaroy centres creation care with new solar roof

The Collaroy Centre is embarking on a project (depicted as an illustration here) to cover and weatherproof its tennis and basketball court, which includes solar panels to make the property more environmentally sustainable. Image: Supplied

BY LAUREN MARTIN

A plan several years in the making is about to come to fruition at The Salvation Army’s Collaroy Centre on Sydney’s northern beaches, with a covered roof of solar panels to be installed over the tennis/basketball court.

The Collaroy Centre is one of The Salvation Army’s single biggest users of electricity, and the solar panels are expected to cut electricity use, and associated costs, by up to 50 percent.

A sketch of the new solar panel roof. Image: Supplied

“Sustainability is important to us because we want to ensure The Collaroy Centre continues operating responsibly and effectively for future generations while supporting The Salvation Army’s broader commitment to creation care and community impact,” said Centre Manager, Carlos Lopes.

The project will also include a 30,000-litre water tank to support more responsible water use across the site.

Carlos said with 35,000 people a year enjoying The Collaroy Centre for experiences like school camps, conferences and retreats, the project will enhance the venue for years to come.

“Projects like this help ensure we can continue providing high-quality experiences, supporting community connection, and generating strong outcomes that ultimately contribute back into mission expression across The Salvation Army.”

Construction is expected to start in the next few months, with the new solar panel roof up and running by the end of the year.