Ibis Care embraces a greener future with solar project

Sydney aged care provider Ibis Care has taken a significant stride towards a greener and more sustainable future following the completion of a $310,000 solar installation project at its Ferndale Gardens facility.

In total, 527 solar panels were installed on Ferndale Gardens’ rooftops last year, creating a 323.15 kilowatt (kW) solar system. 

Ibis Care Chief Executive Officer La Stacey Baramy expressed her pride over the forward-thinking project and acknowledged the joint benefits for the organisation and residents. 

“This solar power project marks a really important step toward building a more sustainable future for Ferndale Gardens and Ibis Care as a whole,” Ms Baramy said.

“The projected 35% reduction in energy requirements at Ferndale Gardens is expected to translate to a saving of just over $100,000. These are funds that we will re-invest back into the facility, our amazing people and residents.

“We firmly believe in taking steps that benefit both our environment and the communities we serve and by investing in renewable energy, we’re ensuring that Ferndale Gardens is a leading example of forward-thinking aged care.”

Solar generation has skyrocketed in New South Wales in the last few years. On January 21 at 11.30 am it set a new solar generation state record with a maximum output of 3,525 megawatts (MW). 

That figure represents an 18.1% year-on-year increase for peak solar generation in NSW. 

Nationally, Australia generated 25% of its electricity from solar power in October 2024, a first for the country. Meanwhile, rooftop solar contributes to roughly 10% of the nation’s solar generation. That percentage is growing year-on-year. 

The Ibis Care installation was completed by Energus, an organisation boasting significant aged care experience. It has also completed major solar installations at the likes of Sydney Olympic Park and the Australian National Maritime Museum. Energywise consulted on the project.

Ms Baramy said Ibis Care is committed to doing the right thing for the environment, and more exciting initiatives are on the horizon. 

“Energus have vast experience in solar energy, and have played a crucial role in helping set us on the path to a greener future by ensuring that the design and installation of our system is carried out in a safe and efficient way that ultimately yields results,” Ms Baramy added.

“We’ve also gone the extra mile by having Energywise advise us on other ways that we can improve our carbon footprint and reduce emissions as an aged care provider.

“Make no mistake, this is just the first step in what will be an ongoing commitment to a greener future from Ibis Care.”

Ibis Care operates across five locations in the St George and Sutherland Shire, offering residential aged care, respite care and independent living options.