Cronulla RSL has completed installation of a 500-kilowatt solar array across its rooftop, one of the largest single-building solar installations in the Sutherland Shire.

The system, comprising over 1,200 panels, is expected to generate approximately 60% of the club’s electricity needs and save more than $200,000 annually in energy costs.

“Clubs use a lot of power—air conditioning, gaming machines, commercial kitchens, all running 18 hours a day,” said CEO Amanda Richards. “Our electricity bills were approaching $400,000 a year. This investment makes financial sense while also being the right thing to do for the environment.”

System Specifications

The installation includes:

• 1,248 high-efficiency solar panels
• Battery storage system (200 kWh capacity)
• Smart energy management system
• Real-time monitoring and optimisation
• Backup grid connection for peak demand

The panels cover approximately 2,500 square metres of the club’s expansive rooftop, taking advantage of ideal north-facing orientation and minimal shading.

Engineering challenges included reinforcing sections of the roof structure to handle the additional weight and installing cable management that didn’t interfere with existing building systems.

Financial Analysis

The total project cost of $850,000 is expected to pay for itself within four years through reduced electricity bills. Beyond that point, the system will generate ongoing savings estimated at:

• Years 5-10: $200,000+ annually
• Years 11-25: $150,000+ annually (accounting for panel degradation)
• Lifetime savings: Over $3.5 million

The club also receives small-scale technology certificates (STCs), providing additional upfront value.

“We looked at this purely as a business decision initially,” Richards explained. “But it turns out doing the right thing environmentally is also the smart financial choice.”

Environmental Impact

The installation will reduce the club’s carbon emissions by approximately 600 tonnes annually—equivalent to taking 130 cars off the road.

Combined with other efficiency measures including LED lighting upgrades and smart HVAC controls, Cronulla RSL aims to reduce its overall energy consumption by 40% within three years.

The club has joined the ClubsNSW sustainability network, sharing learnings with other venues considering similar investments.

Member Response

Club members have responded positively to the investment, with several commenting on social media about pride in their club’s environmental leadership.

“My grandkids are always asking what we’re doing about climate change,” said life member Harold Patterson. “Now I can tell them my club is part of the solution.”

The club is installing a public display in the foyer showing real-time solar generation and cumulative energy savings.

Industry Trend

Cronulla RSL joins a growing number of clubs across NSW investing in renewable energy. Electricity costs represent one of the largest operating expenses for licensed clubs, making solar an increasingly attractive option.

“The economics have reached a tipping point,” noted ClubsNSW sustainability advisor Jennifer Wong. “Clubs that invest now will have a significant cost advantage over those that wait.”

Other Sutherland Shire clubs reportedly evaluating solar investments include Gymea Tradies and Sutherland United Services Club.

Cronulla RSL is located at 38 Gerrale Street, Cronulla. Members interested in learning more about the club’s sustainability initiatives can attend an information session on September 5.