From panels to impact:
Annual Energy Production: 248,003 kWh/ yr
Environmental value: 18,079 kg carbon offset/ yr
Social value: Empowering the Motutapu community with clean, reliable energy
168 kWp Microgrid solar system –
Restored sound of nature with Renewable Energy
On one of the shortest day of the year in June 2025, something remarkable happened on Motutapu Island. For years, the island had relied on noisy and polluting diesel generators, a constant hum that drowned out the natural sounds of the island. But in 2025, the island finally experienced a shift — a transition to solar power, enabled by Sunergise’s turnkey microgrid solution.
Sunergise’s project on Motutapu Island proves that with the right design, technology, and partnership, islands can transition from diesel dependence to renewable energy independence.
The Challenge
Islands like Motutapu face unique challenges, including unpredictable weather and complex installation conditions. For the Department of Conservation (DOC), it was crucial not only to reduce reliance on fossil fuels on the island but also to ensure a resilient, 24/7 power supply that could be easily monitored and managed — helping DOC nationally reach its target of reducing CO₂ emissions by 42% by 2030.
Sunergise’s Solar Power Solution
Sunergise designed a custom 168 kWp microgrid solar system with energy storage system for Motutapu Island, combining efficiency with reliability. This microgrid solar system integrates solar panels and energy storage batteries forming a comprehensive solar energy system.
The turnkey system ensures continuous energy supply even during storms or cloudy days. With upgraded meters DOC can now easily track the energy consumption across the island. Advanced microgrid systems like this use energy management systems to optimize performance and efficiency. The system’s hybrid management ensures that energy storage and production are always optimized, providing predictable power for the island’s needs while significantly reducing fossil fuel use and energy costs.
A Moment to Remember: Project Highlight
The most symbolic moment came when the diesel generators were switched off for the first time.
Kate Lane, Operations Manager at DOC, recalls:
“Since 2023 the island has been running of the diesel generators which are incredible noisy as well as pollute. When the diesel generators finally went silent, the people could hear the birds again on the island.”
By restoring natural conditions, the project helped bring back the sounds of nature and enabled the release of the rare native Takahē, supporting conservation efforts in New Zealand. Discover the full story in the video below.
System Configuration:
Solar Panels: 288 x JA Solar JAM66D42 585W Bifacial Solar panels
Battery Energy Storage: 2 x 225 kWh Sungrow BESS, providing 450 kWh total capacity
Inverters: 2 x 110 kW Sungrow
Mounting: Fixed tilt groundmount, S-Rack Sigma S2
Monitoring: Sungrow Logger 1000
