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Sunshine Coast chosen as site for renewable technology showcase

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An international solar company has opened an interactive centre that will give Sunshine Coast residents and businesses the chance to explore clean energy technology.

Chinese-based Sungrow officially launched its first Australian Solar and Battery Experience Hub on Plaza Parade in Maroochydore, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term investment in the Australian renewable energy market.

Visitors can explore can explore advanced renewable technologies, see real-time demonstrations and receive tailored home and commercial energy advice.

A Sungrow media release stated that the centre, which is powered by an inverter and battery system, serves as a working example of how buildings can operate efficiently and sustainably.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Caloundra MP Kendall Hatcher, local community organisation leaders, Australian renewable energy industry identities and Sungrow Australia executives.

In the opening addresses, the mayor affirmed the role of the hub in helping the region embrace technological innovation for sustainability.

Sungrow technical service director Scott Su, Port of Brisbane power and renewable lead Vinny Kavanagh, MP Kendall Hatcher, Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Colin Lambie, Zero Emission Noosa deputy chair and treasurer Colin Lambie, and Sungrow Australia channel manager Neil Yang.

The centre features three immersive experience zones including: Sungrow Journey, which showcases its global innovation, local milestones and long-term commitment to Australia; Live Experience Area, which allows people to interact with Sungrow’s latest residential solar, battery storage and EV charging solutions through live product demonstrations and real-time system management; and a Smart Hub Experience, which presents the next generation intelligent home energy management, including battery optimisation, energy monitoring and future-ready smart energy technologies that help households maximise energy independence.

Sungrow also donated two sets of energy storage systems to local charities.

The hub will collaborate with local elite installers, ensuring visitors receive professional guidance, trusted installation support and personalised energy solutions.

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A crowd attended the opening of the hub.

The hub will also host renewable energy event series and specialised workshops tailored for homeowners, first-time homebuyers, commercial developers, corporate partners, educational institutions (including schools, TAFEs, and universities), as well as government and community representatives.

It will be open from Tuesdays to Fridays, from 10am to 5pm.

Sungrow Australia channel sales manager Neil Yang said the opening of the hub was a significant moment.

“Sungrow Australia has been a trusted part of everyday life for families, installers, and industry partners across the country,” he said.

“Today, we take an important step forward.

“More than a physical space, it is a place where people can experience clean energy first-hand, learn from industry experts, and gain the confidence to make smarter energy decisions.

“Following 14 years of continuous support from the local community, we made the significant decision to establish this experience hub on the Sunshine Coast.

“Our long-term vision is to replicate this model across major towns and cities in Australia, creating more opportunities for renewable energy education, community engagement, local employment, and sustainable infrastructure.”

Sungrow has more than 600,000 residential and commercial installations across Australia, and more than 14 years of local market presence.

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