A local solar business says the Sunshine Coast is riding the crest of Australia’s renewable energy boom, with growing demand from both homeowners and off-grid adventurers helping drive local jobs and investment.
Springers Solar, headquartered in Warana, has spent more than two decades installing solar systems across Queensland and now employs more than 4 full-time staff on the Sunshine Coast – and aims for that number to reach 40 in the coming year.
Owner Mick Springer said renewable energy was shaping up as one of the country’s major growth industries, delivering long-term employment opportunities similar to past mining booms.
“Solar is one of Australia’s fastest-growing industries, and we’ve been at the forefront of that growth for 24 years,” Mr Springer said.
“As demand continues to rise, we’re committed to expanding our local footprint, investing in skills and supporting the Coast’s clean-energy future.”
While Springers is widely known for residential solar and battery installations, Mr Springer said many locals were unaware the business also operates a dedicated 12–48V components and accessories store at its Warana base – catering specifically to caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes and four-wheel-drives.
With off-grid beach camping and overlanding increasingly popular among Coast residents, demand for mobile solar solutions has surged.
“Connecting solar to your dual battery setup is the best way to achieve freedom while adventuring outdoors,” Mr Springer said.
“There’s no noisy generators, no rushing back to powered sites, and no reliance on scarce hook-ups.
“In summer, when the sun is doing the heavy lifting, solar lets you stay longer in remote spots while keeping fridges cold, batteries topped up and the essentials running smoothly.”
The Warana store stocks portable and fixed solar panels, lithium batteries, DC-DC chargers, inverters, battery monitors and electrical protection equipment, all selected for harsh coastal and off-road conditions.
“Heat, dust, vibration and salt air are realities for Sunshine Coast campers,” Mr Springer said.
“Having access to the right gear locally – and people who understand it – makes a big difference.”
He said off-grid power systems were helping Coast locals explore quieter, less crowded areas without sacrificing comfort.
“The beauty of an off-grid setup is confidence,” he said.
“You can go where you want knowing you’re self-sufficient, without worrying about flat batteries or the next powered site.”
The residential solar market is also expected to grow as households look to reduce power bills amid rising energy costs. Federal incentives, including the Cheaper Home Batteries program, are encouraging homeowners to act sooner rather than later.
“These rebates are designed to step down over time,” Mr Springer said.
“Acting now allows homeowners to lock in higher incentives and see faster long-term savings.”
For many Sunshine Coast residents, the appeal goes beyond cost savings.
“Solar gives households greater energy independence while reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels,” Mr Springer said.
“It’s better for the environment and helps build a more resilient energy grid.”
As renewable energy gathers momentum nationally, Springers Solar says the Sunshine Coast is well placed to benefit – with local jobs, local expertise and local solutions powering both homes and holidays.
