MidCoast aquatic centres will switch to solar and reduce run costs, emissions and the chance of fee hikes

The project is expected to save council more than $5M over its 25-year lifetime.

Ellie Chamberlain
March 02, 2026

Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre in Taree and the Great Lakes Aquatic Centre in Forster will have solar panels installed by the end of June, taking the pressure off annual increases to entry fees.

Why it matters: The project was initiated in 2024 following the adoption of MidCoast Council’s Climate Change Strategy.

The strategy identified the installation of solar systems at the two centres as a priority to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs and contribute to the council's emissions reduction targets.

Cost savings for council: It was noted during the council meeting on Wednesday that “sufficient budget” exists for the project to be funded from the aquatic centre’s reserves.

Council reports the system payback period for both facilities is under three years.

The projected 25-year lifetime cost savings is $3,179,400 for the Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre and $1,967,870 for the Great Lakes Aquatic Centre.

Council said any financial savings generated by the solar system installations will benefit MidCoast Council rather than the facility operator.

How MNC residents are making their homes more sustainable, from simple changes to big ticket items

"Our homes will play a large role, where the benefits are huge in terms of savings, our health and the environment."

Council has officially entered into a contract with TSP Energy Pty Ltd (previously Solar Professionals) who are expected to complete the installations before June 30, 2026.

Local impact: Council said improvements in cost efficiency for running the centre, thanks to the solar panels, will mean annual entry fee increases are less likely.

Thumbnail: (L) Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre in Taree, picture by Ellie Chamberlain (R) Great Lakes Aquatic Centre in Forster, Centres’ Facebook page.