Solar panel system for Fremantle Passenger Terminal

A new solar panel system on the Fremantle Passenger Terminal will provide 15% of Victoria Quay’s energy needs, equating to 65% of Fremantle Ports’ 11-storey Administration Building’s energy needs or all of the terminal’s energy needs when it is being used.

This year, a 500kW photovoltaic (PV) system (solar panels) will be installed on the roof of the Fremantle Passenger Terminal, at Victoria Quay, the southern wharf area of the harbour.

The solar panels will produce about 800,000kWh of energy annually, reducing 15,000 tonnes of CO₂ over 25 years and offsetting CO₂ emissions equivalent to the planting of 85,000 trees.

Acting CEO Sean Craig said the project was highly worthwhile and well planned.

“All the necessary engineering and planning approvals have been received,” he said.

“The solar panel installation will be unobtrusive and has been carefully planned to avoid issues such as glare.”

He said Fremantle Ports was committed to addressing ever-growing environmental concerns and supporting climate action.

“As a responsible corporate citizen, Fremantle Ports is addressing the need to reduce carbon emissions.

“This project will contribute to Western Australia’s goal for a low-carbon future, complement the City of Fremantle’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2025 and address three of the key UN Sustainable Development Goals: Affordable and Clean Energy, Climate Action, and Sustainable Cities and Communities.”

Sean Craig said Fremantle Ports strived to operate in the most efficient manner to minimise energy consumption.

“Over a number of years, we’ve investigated and implemented a wide range of initiatives to reduce greenhouse emissions in areas such as air conditioning, electricity, lighting, materials handling, office equipment, vehicles and waste.

“For example, we have been replacing traditional metal halide street lighting around the Fremantle Inner Harbour with innovative energy-efficient LED lighting.”

Installation of the Fremantle Passenger Terminal solar panel system will start mid-year and be completed by the end of 2021. Fremantle Ports operates an environmental management system that is independently audited and certified to the international ISO 14001 Standard.

For information about the project and to see a video, see our Energy page.

Artist's impressions below: