IN what is believed to be a first for an Australian airport, Goulburn airport has installed a series of hybrid wind and solar powered street light systems.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The installation lights a previously dark public space and is a dramatic demonstration of leading edge technology, according to two airport owners.
John Ferrara and John ten Have are collaborating on the initiative, starting with a trial of four units.
Goulburn Mulwaree Council is negotiating with Mr Ferrara to buy the airport. The terms are a $250,000 deposit on exchange of contracts and that he operates the facility for two years for an annual $500 fee. At the end of the two years, or whenever a capital works program is completed, he will have the option to buy the complex for $2.5 million.
An update on negotiations is due to go to the February council meeting.
The lights have been installed on Mr Ferrara’s land but project out on to public space.
Asked why the lights were installed ahead of any formal agreement on the airport purchase, Mr ten Have said sometimes it was best to “lead from the front” and show what was possible.
“There is no doubt that this form of street lighting does provide very significant savings in energy consumption, particularly on the periphery of the city supply network,” he said.
“The stated aim of the Goulburn Mulwaree Council is to embrace green initiatives and this installation enables the decision makers to see the options for the future at first hand.”
The lights also improved security and fitted with the pair’s common vision to make the airport a “thriving, eco friendly and active” facility.
Mr ten Have and Mr Ferrara jointly funded and installed the lights.
“Should the airport management and purchase proceed the plans are to invest heavily in greening and beautifying the resource,” Mr ten Have said.
“Rabid self interest, derelict buildings and conflict have had their day.”
