After securing a $4,000 grant from the South West Community Foundation, Warrnambool’s emergency accommodation facility will complete the installation of its solar panelling.

The 12-bed facility, opened in 2013, will double the expanse of the existing 2kw solar system to account for daytime usage at the Timor Street site.

South West Healthcare building and infrastructure manager Ray Bennett said using solar would save Rotary House a substantial amount.

“It saves us 5 kilowatts each day, so about $1.50 a day,” he said. “Times that by 365 days and it’s freeing up resources that can be used elsewhere.”

SWH environmental sustainability project officer Elvira Hewson said the installation was also symbolic.

“It’s part of the visible expression of reducing emissions as part of our commitment to caring for the community,” she said.

The funding for the project was courtesy of The Cumorah Foundation.

Rotary House is available for people from out-of-town, including those who need to be close to hospital for next-day medical treatment or early-morning surgery.

The facility houses patients, families and carers from as far away as Mount Gambier, who may need extra rest-time before driving home after day surgery or chemotherapy.

Further SWH sustainability initiatives are to be expressed at World Environment Day forums to be held at Warrnambool on June 5 and Camperdown June 6.