There was a real buzz at the Renewable Energy Expo in Narooma over the weekend, a Narooma Rotary community project.
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Every one of the 20 exhibitors’ stands seemed busy throughout the weekend. Most exhibitors were local with some from Bega and Canberra
“One told me he had 50 leads to follow up as a result of the expo,” said event coordinator Frank Eden.
Over 600 home and business owners visited the Expo to learn more about making possible savings on power bills, being more environmentally sustainable, and future investment opportunities.
Most were local but many were from across South East NSW with some also from Canberra. One Canberra couple came down especially for the Expo. Some were obviously travelling from as far as Adelaide, Wodonga and Melbourne.
In officially opening the expo, Eurobodalla Cr Phil Constable congratulated Narooma Rotary on its “fantastic initiative” especially Frank Eden, the driving force behind the expo.
He also thanked exhibitors. “These Expos are time consuming and costly,” he said. “We appreciate your passion for the industry and your commitment in coming here.”
Cr Constable was also impressed to see Tesla cars close up. “I’m excited that a location for a Tesla recharging station is currently being discussed for Narooma,” he said.
About 100 people went to the forum at Club Narooma on Saturday night.
Solar Council CEO John Grimes spoke about power trends, especially batteries, and provided a clear explanation of net metering and smart meters.
Lawrence McIntosh from SolarShare in Canberra and UTS in Sydney, spoke about virtual net metering and mini grids.
The third speaker, Lisa Miller from the Office of Environment and Heritage, spoke about “Demystifying Solar” with practical advice, including looking first at reducing power consumption.
Narooma Public School Year 5 students created posters about renewable energy that were displayed in the Sport and Leisure Centre over the weekend.
Certificates were presented on Monday to students Hannah Chessell for presentation, Alyesha Fletcher for understanding, Eliza Gray for effort, Ruby Efraemson for research and Seth Leecham for creativity, with Layton Moore receiving an Honorable Mention for understanding.
President Michael O’Connor also expressed his gratitude to Narooma Lions for their barbecue on Saturday.
“I love Narooma,” Frank Eden said. “Local businesses were so generous in sponsoring this event. Thank you all.”
He also thanked the expo committee of John Doyle, Angie Ulrichsen, Mike Young, Chris O’Brien and Laurelle Pacey for their expertise and enthusiasm. “Without your efforts, this event would not have happened.”
More information at expo.naroomarotary.org.au