Media Release: 30 November 2009

Mayor Bob Abbot officially opened the Sunshine Coast facilities of Brisbane-based solar company Ingenero today.

Riding on a wave of interest in solar power, Ingenero has grown to employ 45 people based in Brisbane and Warana in just two years. The rapid growth has led to a total of 30 people finding jobs in Premier Circuit, Warana: 10 began their new jobs within the last fortnight.

“We are delighted to welcome Ingenero, its staff and its facility,” Cr Abbot said.

Council has a goal of making the Sunshine Coast the most sustainable region in Australia.

“Creating new, green jobs in sustainable industries is central to that vision.”

In August, Ingenero’s growth was boosted when it merged with Noosa-based SolarPay, which supplied systems for the Sunshine Coast Environment Council’s highly successful 1000 Solar Roofs Challenge.

The company’s small Noosa office was soon inadequate for the new requirements of a fully equipped call centre and warehouse. Ingenero opted to keep the solar expertise on the Sunshine Coast by shifting to Warana. The flow-on effects of the industry’s growth are being felt by local electricians and plumbers who have also employed and trained people to meet the demand for solar.

Ingenero’s CEO Steve McRae said: “Our Sunshine Coast people have a real passion for harnessing the power of the sun through solar power and hot water systems. Tackling climate change is high on the agenda of governments and, increasingly, industry. Where better to base this new facility than on the aptly named Sunshine Coast?

“Our growth in both commercial and residential sectors of the solar industry is a trend we aim to continue. Ingenero is a company very committed to the delivery of quality, cost-effective solutions to our customers. These solutions are backed by an industry-leading warranty and maintenance package,” Mr McRae said.