Environmental Projects
Deakin University Microgrid
Deakin University's 14.5-hectare solar energy farm at the Waurn Ponds campus comprises a 7MW of PV panels, a one-megawatt central battery, integrated rooftop solar panels and smaller batteries across the campus.
PM&A were selected to develop landscape proposals to mitigate the visual impact on neighboring properties. We also identified the project as an opportunity to achieve ecological outcomes through establishing indigenous biolink planting, and linking with future revegetation works along ridges and waterways.
Werribee Zoo Solar Forest Concept
We were invited to collaborate on a project bid to create a ‘Solar Forest’ at Werribee Zoo. Our concept design proposed a solar tree with the canopy housing solar panels and the trunks functioning as information stations.
Inspiration was taken from the Umbrella Thorn Acacia tree of the African savannah landscape, with the ‘tree trunks’ acting as learning and information poles, and the tree canopy also powering charging stations for electric vehicles and LED lighting the forecourt area.
The concept included consideration of cost effective fabrication, conceiving a modular branch framework with cylindrical casings comprising the trunk. Our role included concept and functional design and preparation visual imaging including a ‘fly through’ video presentation.
Deakin Waterway Revegetation
The existing waterways at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds Campus were bare and eroded with little or no vegetation cover to prevent further erosion, and presented poor views from adjacent facilities.
PMLA produced a long-term plan for the revegetation of the precinct, re-establishing a rich ecosystem to support a diversity of plants and animals. We selected and sourced locally indigenous plant species to replicate closed forest vegetation types that enhance the natural qualities of the waterways, while reducing maintenance.
Planting has been undertaken over a number of years, and is well on the way towards a self-supporting system that provides a range of ecological services and aesthetic values.