Innovation fund project - Central Park Motor Inn and Conference Centre, Taumarunui

The Central Park Motor Inn and Conference Centre in Taumarunui are experienced users of solar technology, with three previously installed systems in operation prior to the start of this project.

The site currently uses 1,500 litres of hot water per day and it is anticipated that this installation may decrease the energy use by 9,000kWh per annum.

The Motor Inn is spread out over a large area which is why the new configuration has been implemented. The main building has 14 rooms plus restaurant and conference rooms which has had 16m2 of additional Edwards thermosyphon systems installed.

The plumber, Colin Levin Plumbing, who completed the installation, also worked on the previous solar water heating installation and was familiar with the plumbing system at the site - a big plus for the project owner.

The climate in Taumaranui is one of the harshest in New Zealand so the results of this project will be anticipated with interest.