Proudly helping solar power Sydney Zoo

On a beautiful sunny day at Sydney Zoo, it’s not just the meerkats who are lapping up the rays – the hundreds of solar panels across the site are too. 

It’s been around two years since EnergyAustralia started working with Sydney Zoo as their solar and energy partner, installing 602 solar panels across eight buildings. 

Since then, the resident animals have been enjoying their baths, lighting and other amenities, partially powered by the sun. 

Solar power for precious creatures 

Sydney Zoo is sprawled over 42 acres in the heart of Western Sydney. From koalas and kangaroos to elephants and zebras, the Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals – including Australia’s largest reptile and nocturnal house.  

With Sydney Zoo’s vision to “Connect people with animals to secure a sustainable future for wildlife,” getting solar panels installed across the property to help harness the power of the sun just made sense. 

“Caring for exotic and native animals does require a lot of energy,” says Chris Rivett, Chief Commercial Officer at Sydney Zoo. “This is why these solar panels are a step in the right direction, towards more responsible energy management here at the zoo.”  

Helping power paw-some fun 

In 2024 alone, the solar system generated approximately 325 MWh of energy. So far this year it’s generated another 261 MWh. 

Wondering what solar can help power at a zoo? The 271 kW system helps generate electricity for all kinds of paw-some activities!  

Otse, Oodi and all the meerkat mob love lapping up the heat, but when it’s not as warm out, they huddle under special heat lamps – now partially powered by solar. 

Then there’s fun-loving elephant brothers Kavi and Ashoka. These two just love a roll around in the mud, so a good bath is part of their regular routine. The water is heated to keep them both nice and comfy, and behind the scenes, the warm water often gets a boost of energy from solar.  
 

And don’t forget the reptile and nocturnal house. The night comes to life inside these habitats, with quolls, bats, possums and more. These habitats use specialised lighting, partially powered by the solar, to mimic natural day-to-night cycles, keeping the cute critters happy and healthy. 

Solar solutions 

These customers may be of the furry, feline and feathered variety, but we want to help make the renewable energy transformation as simple as possible for all our customers.  

Our experienced energy solutions team can support you with our range of solar products including solar panels, batteries and inverters. 

Discover more about our solar solutions.