Marrickville Women’s Refuge solar project completed

23 August 2026

By Gavin Gilchrist

Inner West Community Energy’s latest community solar project, a 16.15 kilowatt solar PV system with a 25 kilowatt-hour battery, is now up and running at the Marrickville Women’s Refuge run by the Aboriginal Women and Children’s Crisis Service (AWCCS).

Pictured from left to right: Katie Brennan (with dog Fifi), Yvette Kirby and Vivien Johnson from the refuge, with solar installers Brayden May and Roland Lawrence.

The project cost $36,000, with $14,000 being contributed from the Stronger Communities Program Round 9, $7,000 from Inner West Community Energy, and $15,000 from the AWCCS.

The project comprises 35 475-watt Trina panels, a 10-kilowatt Sungrow inverter and a 25 kilowatt-hour Sungrow battery. It’s estimated the solar energy will cut the refuge’s power bill by around $3,200 a year.

The refuge provides crisis accommodation for up to five indigenous families who are seeking refuge from domestic violence or homelessness from anywhere in NSW. The service helps find more permanent housing and offers legal and financial assistance.

The solar and battery system was installed by Roland Lawrence Electrical, with project management by Inner West Community Energy. Thanks to the office of the Member for Grayndler, Mr Albanese, for their support.