The Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club (QBLBC) has always been serious about the green. Recently, the Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club solar initiative has demonstrated their commitment to sustainability even further. In fact, the Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club solar project has become a model for other clubs considering clean energy.
ata-end=”542″>Now, with 40 solar panels and battery storage, they’re playing a longer game, trimming power bills year by year while building the kind of energy independence other local clubs might want to follow. The Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club solar investment also showcases how renewable energy can reshape local community spaces.
Mike Ward, a longtime board member and volunteer with QBLBC, says they’ve been interested in solar for several years, mainly because their BC Hydro bill is their largest expense. For clubs like the Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club, solar technology can be a game-changer for long-term sustainability.
The club is the only lawn bowling facility in North America with both an outdoor green and indoor green in the same facility, allowing year-round lawn bowling powered by baseboard electric heat.
“The fact that solar, wind, and batteries are now the cheapest electricity on the planet was definitely a driver. People are putting it on their homes and we’re seeing large-scale solar farms. I figured if others were doing it, we could too,” says Ward.
A Long-Term Investment
The club was able to fund the 20 kW system through donations from members, while taking advantage of incentives from BC Hydro. Ward notes that within a number of years, the solar installation will have paid for itself, with the resulting energy savings flowing directly back to the organization and its members’ shared love of lawn bowling.
ta-start=”1699″ data-end=”1801″>”It’s a very good long-term investment for the club,” says Ward.
Building Resilience with Battery Storage
Adding to the solar system, QBLBC installed 18 kWh of battery storage, a decision prompted by the power outages that can accompany Vancouver Island winters. Last year, an outage during a tournament brought play to an abrupt halt, disappointing competitors who had travelled from across the island to participate. With battery storage, QBLBC can be assured that the lights will stay on and the bowls will keep rolling, rain or shine.
Community Leadership Through Clean Energy
Hakai Energy Solutions, a SkyFire Energy company, installed the solar system and battery storage. Hakai Energy Solutions former CEO, Jason Jackson says the club is a shining example of community leadership in action.
“Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club is showing real leadership by taking control of their own energy future,” says Jackson. “They’re not just saving on energy bills, they’re setting an example for clubs and organizations across Vancouver Island that clean, local energy is a smart investment in the future of their communit
Lead by example in your community.
The Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club is demonstrating how community organizations can build a more resilient and sustainable future through clean energy. Whether you’re a recreation facility, non-profit organization, community club, or local business, solar and battery storage can help reduce operating costs, improve energy security, and support your long-term goals. Connect with Hakai Energy Solutions to explore how renewable energy can work for your organization. Overall, the Qualicum Beach Lawn Bowling Club solar commitment highlights the positive impact of clean energy for local communities.