The need to install air-conditioning across multiple studio spaces led this long-standing, volunteer-run community organisation to explore commercial solar. Operating since 1989, the not-for-profit organisation supports creative and community programs and is largely run by volunteers. Stephanie White Treasurer, Project Officer and Curator was responsible for managing the solar project and quickly realised this wasn’t a standard rooftop solar job.
The Challenge: A Complex Commercial Solar Installation
Because the building is owned by the City of Moreton Bay, the project needed to meet strict commercial solar and council compliance requirements. On top of that, the building itself presented challenges: its age, structural constraints, and cathedral ceilings made it unsuitable for many installers. Around eight solar companies were approached, but only two or three were able to quote due to the complexity of the roof and the commercial nature of the site. This highlighted a common issue in the commercial solar market: not all installers are equipped to handle complex roofs, older buildings, or high-compliance environments.
Why GEM Energy?
GEM Energy stood out early in the selection process. While price was an important factor for the not-for-profit, what ultimately set GEM apart was their understanding that every roof is different, especially in commercial and community buildings. Rather than applying a standard design, GEM assessed the site through a safety-first lens, taking into account roof structure, access requirements, compliance obligations and long-term performance. Supported by an in-house engineering team and in-house installation crews, GEM was able to design and deliver a solution tailored to the building’s unique conditions. This vertically integrated approach gave the organisation confidence that the system would be engineered, installed and reviewed by the same experienced team, reducing risk and ensuring nothing was overlooked.
Project Delivery: Communication, Safety and Expertise
From start to finish, communication was clear and consistent. Stephanie described the experience as professional and well-managed, with regular updates, prompt responses and a team that was easy to work with. During the installation process, GEM identified the need for additional structural engineering reports, a requirement that only became apparent once work commenced on site. While this resulted in unavoidable delays, it reinforced GEM’s commitment to safety, compliance and best-practice commercial solar installation. Rather than pushing ahead, the issue was addressed transparently and thoroughly, ensuring the system met all engineering and safety standards. On site, the installers were described “professional and respectful,” with a strong focus on workplace safety, public safety and professionalism even when public commentary arose around safety compliance.
The Outcome
The solar system was delivered within budget and designed as a solar-only commercial solution, supporting increased energy demand rather than battery storage, which was not suitable for the organisation’s operations. While storms, seasonal disruptions and the Christmas period have delayed a full review of performance data, the installation has already enabled the electrical upgrades required to support air-conditioning across the facility.
Client Feedback
When asked to describe the experience in one word, Stephanie didn’t hesitate: professional. She would confidently recommend GEM Energy to other organisations, particularly those with complex roofs, older buildings, council-owned sites or high compliance requirements. The combination of safety-first design, in-house engineering, clear communication and experienced installation teams provided reassurance throughout the project.