St John Wānaka will receive 20 years of free solar energy thanks to a competition run by renewable energy company solarZero.

The much-loved charitable organisation providing ambulance services, youth programmes and community care across Upper Clutha has been voted the winner of the inaugural Solar Futures competition, receiving cheaper energy bills and access to a solar service valued at $45,000.

“We were thrilled to bits when solarZero approached us to be part of this and we’re really appreciative for the whole competition,” St John Wānaka chair Dell Taylor said.

“This prize is especially important for us, because in the event of a big earthquake, the St John station could become quite a community hub, and having solar power helps us to keep operating.”

St John Wānaka was one of five community organisations that were voted on by the public in the solarZero Solar Futures competition. It received 573 votes out of a total 1322 votes, followed by the Upper Clutha Rugby Club with 307 votes, Hāwea Playgroup receiving 252, Dance Wānaka with 113 and Wānaka Cricket (Luggate Albion Cricket Club) on 77.

“We are delighted to be supporting St John Wānaka for the next two decades,” solarZero Wānaka territory manager Scott Kiddey said. 

“Beyond essential medical work within the Upper Clutha area, St John Wānaka gives back to the community with a range of initiatives, including their youth cadet programme, outreach therapy pet programme and first-aid training.”

solarZero chief executive Matt Ward is in Wānaka today (August 15) to congratulate St John Wānaka and offer a financial donation to the other finalists. He will also formally open the new solarZero Wānaka showroom on McCormick Street in Three Parks.

The prize consists of a free 20-year solar energy service complete with access to a 16-panel solar system and battery storage. Monitoring, battery optimisation, support during outages, repairs, replacements and ongoing firmware updates for 20 years also form part of the prize.

PHOTO: Supplied