Centre for Ministry installs 100kW solar system in step toward Net Zero

The Synod of NSW & ACT has installed a 100-kilowatt rooftop solar system at the Centre for Ministry in North Parramatta, as part of its commitment to climate justice and its goal of reaching Net Zero by 2035.

The project, delivered by commercial solar installer Todae Solar, comprises 194 high-efficiency panels installed across the main building roof, covering the East Wing, West Wing, Library, and Auditorium sections. Installation began in mid June and the final stage of activating the system takes place this Thursday, 25th June.

Once fully operational, the system is projected to supply approximately 33 per cent of the Centre's average daily energy needs from solar, the equivalent of powering 11 homes, keeping 19 cars off the road, and planting 136 trees each year.

The project follows a comprehensive strategic review of Synod properties undertaken in 2025 by the Property Services Team, which holds operational responsibility for seven properties across the Synod. The review produced a 10-year capital works plan for each property, with sustainability identified as a priority alongside maintenance and accessibility.

Head of Property Services Tim Dryden says climate stewardship was a clear driver.

"With Climate Stewardship being a core component of the Future Directions Commitments, sustainability was one area that we wanted to focus on whilst working within budgetary constraints," Dryden says.

Three factors made the Centre for Ministry the site selected for this first installation: energy costs exceeding $100,000 per year, energy consumption concentrated predominantly within daylight hours, and a large roof space suited to solar panels.

A feasibility assessment confirmed that a 100kW system would reduce the Centre's external power usage by approximately 27 per cent and pay for itself in around 3.5 years.

"This short payback period will lead to net savings within four years' time, meaning that in this instance Property Stewardship and our commitment to Climate Stewardship are in perfect alignment.”

Battery storage was assessed but set aside for this phase, given that most energy use occurs during daylight hours. The Property Services Team has flagged further sustainability upgrades across Synod properties in coming years, including potential solar or battery installations at other sites.

The Centre for Ministry sits within a Heritage Conservation Area, which required the team to submit a Heritage Minor Works application to the local council before works could proceed. Approval was granted, removing the need for a full Development Application.

Site Manager Alex Duric says the site presented a number of practical considerations during planning and installation.

"Identifying the appropriate areas of the roof that provide the best exposure to the sun throughout the day, ensuring the structural integrity of the roof to bear the load of the solar panels, complying with local council considering the heritage aspects of the site, and timing the installation to minimise disruption to staff, students and visitors," says Alex.

On the broader significance of the project, Duric adds: "To be involved in a substantial project that aligns so closely to the Church's values regarding environmental stewardship and climate justice is extremely rewarding."

The total project cost was partially offset by a government subsidy covering approximately 25 per cent of the gross cost. The net investment is projected to generate savings of more than $560,000 over 25 years, with the system monitored in real time through Solar Analytics, tracking both energy generation and consumption.

The government funding that subsidised this project is available to any congregation or presbytery considering a similar installation. The UFS Schofield Loan is also an option, offering up to $50,000 at nominal interest rates for the purpose of installing solar, battery systems and other repairs to Church buildings. For more information visit here

Congregations or Presbyteries interested in undertaking similar works are encouraged to contact the Property Services Team at property@nswact.uca.org.au or 02 8267 4300.

This installation sits within the Synod's Future Directions commitment to an ongoing and active commitment to the stewardship of the earth - a step from advocacy to action.

'The system is projected to supply approximately 33 per cent of the Centre's average daily energy needs from solar, the equivalent of powering 11 homes, keeping 19 cars off the road, and planting 136 trees each year.'