Paving the way in Tourism using sustainable energy, Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa are the first solar heated commercial hot pools in the Southern hemisphere. A combination of self-generation and BraveTrace energy certificates (NZ-ECs) ensures consistent heating even during cloudy periods and at night, without compromising sustainability.
Sourcing water from the Rangitata River, the facility’s standout feature is its impressive solar field, a vast array of solar thermal collectors covering a third of the site. “Our solar array meets 100% of the pool heating load on sunny days, even in winter,” says Matt Turner, General Manager. This solar farm, with 480 panels producing 2.2 kW each, equates to the power of 500 electric jugs. On clear days, it generates 1 MW of energy, efficiently meeting heating needs. Excess energy is dissipated through the waterfall to prevent boiling, using 14,400 evacuated tubes that transfer up to 80% of the sun’s energy into the pool heating circuit.
In addition to solar power, Ōpuke integrates energy-efficient heat pumps with Meridian Energy South Island hydroelectricity certified by BraveTrace. Those energy certificates also cover four EV chargers in the car park, free for guests, promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.
Ōpuke’s innovative energy management extends to automation systems (e.g., intelligent car park lighting) that optimise operational efficiency and minimise energy use. These efforts have earned them Qualmark Gold accreditation and the “Excellence in Environmental Sustainability” award at the 2024 ANZ Business of the Year Awards.