Council energy efficiency upgrade cuts electricity use and GHG emissions by over 50%!
NRG Group led the comprehensive delivery of capital works at the Goombungee Art Gallery and Library, for our valued client, Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC)
THE BRIEF:
A clear objective: to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and ensure compliance with modern standards. The project focused on replacing outdated mechanical systems with contemporary, cost-effective solutions.
TRC engaged NRG to lead the design and delivery of the upgrade. Working closely with client stakeholders, NRG adopted an innovative, first-principles design approach. This strategy delivered significantly improved energy performance and carbon savings compared to a traditional like-for-like replacement.
In addition to the technical upgrades, NRG collaborated with the client’s facilities maintenance team to provide upskilling opportunities. This included hands-on experience in construction and energy-efficient design, contributing to long-term capability building within the Council.
Existing infrastructure included:
- 9 x individual direct expansion (DX) air-conditioning units (total capacity: 78kWr)
- Conventional halogen lighting
- Poor-performing roof insulation
- No Building Management System (BMS) or connectivity
- High asset maintenance service costs
THE SOLUTION:
Providing a turn-key design and construct energy efficiency package in partnership with NRG, works included:
- 56kWr Mitsubishi electric centralised outdoor unit (DX to Hydronic) with seven hydronic split ducted AC units
- Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) to recover energy from toilet exhaust
- LED lighting upgrades
- 26kWp rooftop solar PV
- Upgraded roof insulation
- New BMS and energy management software upgrade
NRG’s solution has delivered:
- Energy & Carbon Savings: ~25,375 kWh/year, cutting energy costs by approx. $4,517 and reducing CO₂ emissions by 10.3 tonnes annually.
- Refrigerant Transition: Shifted to R32 refrigerant, lowering Global Warming Potential (2088 → 675) and eliminating Ozone Depletion Potential.
- System Efficiency: Reduced mechanical assets (18 → 11) and simplified infrastructure with a 2-pipe energy recovery system.
- Comfort & Conservation: Hydronic fan coils and ERV system provide stable temperatures and free energy, supporting artwork preservation and occupant comfort.
- Operational Improvements: Maintenance visits reduced (4 → 3/year); enhanced system visibility via BMS and improved mechanical-electrical integration.
- Strategic Impact: Aligns with TRC’s sustainability goals, offers a replicable model for future upgrades, and includes knowledge transfer on hybrid HVAC integrated with renewables.