PRODUCT
Smart Solar Benches
Overview
Eco Renewable Energy partnered with Knox City Council to introduce our innovative Smart Solar Bench at the Rowville Community Centre in Victoria. The Council aimed to provide the local community with a sustainable solution that offers free access to Wi-Fi and phone charging, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors while staying connected. The bench was strategically placed near key recreational areas, ensuring it became essential to the community’s outdoor experience.
This case study highlights the successful implementation of the Smart Solar Bench, its positive reception by the local community, and how it supports diverse needs, from students completing homework to adults staying connected for work and leisure.
Challenge
Knox City Council recognised the growing need for outdoor spaces that blend convenience with sustainability. With people increasingly reliant on smartphones and other devices, the Council wanted to offer a solution that would encourage outdoor activities without sacrificing connectivity.
The Council sought a product that could service the community in a multifunctional way:
- Provide Wi-Fi access for students, workers, and residents.
- Offer charging facilities for devices
- Promote sustainable energy use, aligning with Knox City Council’s environmental goals.
- Additionally, the chosen location for the installation, Rowville Community Centre, required a solution that could accommodate various groups using the bench.
Solution
Eco Renewable Energy’s Smart Solar Bench was the perfect fit for Knox City Council’s vision. The bench is powered entirely by solar energy, making it a sustainable addition to the community’s recreational spaces. Equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, the bench was designed to offer uninterrupted connectivity and charging throughout the day and night.
The bench was installed at a central location in Rowville Community Centre, strategically positioned near the basketball and tennis courts, outdoor gym, and adjacent to Rowville Primary School. This location ensured that a broad cross-section of the community could benefit from the bench, including:
-Students from Rowville Primary School who could log in to complete homework.
-Fitness enthusiasts who used the gyms or courts and wanted to listen to music or podcasts while exercising.
-Community members who are looking for an outdoor workspace to check emails and hold meetings.
Results
Since the installation, the Smart Solar Bench has quickly become a popular spot for a variety of users. Knox City Council received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community, praising both the convenience and environmental aspects of the bench. In a community survey, several key reasons for using the bench were highlighted:
-Studying and homework: Students found the outdoor setting refreshing and conducive to completing schoolwork.
-Work and productivity: Professionals used the bench for remote work, appreciating the opportunity to enjoy fresh air while staying connected.
-Leisure and entertainment: Individuals visiting the courts and gym used the bench for music, software updates, and socialising.
The survey results also revealed that the solar bench was being used consistently throughout the day, demonstrating its broad appeal. From school students to adults using the courts for recreation, the bench proved to be a versatile asset to the community.
Conclusion
The Smart Solar Bench installation at Rowville Community Centre has enhanced the connectivity and convenience for local residents and also contributed to the Council’s efforts to promote sustainable, green energy solutions. By creating an engaging, functional outdoor environment, Knox City Council has taken a significant step toward supporting healthier, more connected lifestyles in Rowville.
At Eco Renewable Energy, we are proud to have provided Knox City Council with a solution that meets the diverse needs of their community while upholding the values of sustainability and innovation. We look forward to continuing our partnership and expanding the impact of Smart Solar Benches in more communities.
For more information about our Smart Solar Benches and other renewable energy solutions, contact us at +61280553775 or info@ecorenewableenergy.com.au.
