Driving Sustainability at Kia with Solar Energy Solutions
Kia Corporation, Korea’s oldest motor vehicle manufacturer and a key part of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, ranks as the world’s fifth-largest vehicle producer. With operations spanning globally, the company’s Ferntree branch in Burwood, Victoria, sought to embrace renewable energy solutions to reduce electricity expenses during business hours.

The Challenge

Operating daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, the Kia Ferntree site faced consistently high electricity costs. While the infrastructure supported current operations, it required upgrades to integrate a modern solar energy system effectively.  

Project Goals

Kia Ferntree aimed to:
  • Minimize electricity costs during daily business hours.
  • Leverage advanced solar technologies for improved energy efficiency.
  • Establish a foundation for future battery storage integration to manage peak load demands.

TGR’s Solution

After conducting a detailed load analysis and feasibility study, TGR developed a phased solar energy solution for Kia Ferntree:

Stage 1:

  • Installation of a 75 kW on-roof solar system equipped with SolarEdge optimizers and inverters to maximize energy production and efficiency
  • Upgrade of the existing Main Switch Board (MSB) to support the new solar infrastructure.
  • A complete solar production monitoring system to ensure accurate tracking and optimization of energy output.
  • Commissioned and operational since July 2020.

Results and Benefits

  • Energy Cost Savings: Substantial reductions in electricity expenses during business hours.
  • Enhanced Monitoring: Real-time solar production tracking ensures optimal performance.
  • Sustainability Leadership:A significant step toward renewable energy adoption aligns with Kia’s global sustainability vision.
  • Quick Payback Period: ROI estimated at 2-3 years, making the investment highly cost-effective.

Why Kia Ferntree Partnered with TGR

TGR’s expertise in providing tailored renewable energy solutions ensured that the Kia Ferntree branch received a seamless transition to solar energy. From infrastructure upgrades to system monitoring, TGR’s end-to-end project management made them the ideal partner for this initiative.

Project Highlights

Client
Kia Corporation – Ferntree Branch
Location
Burwood, Victoria
Solution
75 kW solar system with SolarEdge monitoring and optimized performance.
Commissioning Date
July 2020
Estimated ROI
2-3 years

Conclusion

Kia Ferntree’s transition to solar energy has reduced operating costs while showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainable practices. With Stage 2 investigations underway, Kia is poised to further enhance its energy independence and environmental impact.

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