Powering Sustainability at Porta’s Bridgewater Sawmill

At Porta, sustainability isn't just a word. It's about continually working to reduce our impact. Our sawmill in Bridgewater, Tasmania, reflects this commitment with one of the state’s largest rooftop solar installations. Completed in 2020, the system reduces emissions, cuts energy costs, and demonstrates how renewable energy can power large-scale industrial operations efficiently.

Building a Smarter Operation

Over the past few years, the Bridgewater site has undergone significant upgrades, including the addition of a new sawmill alongside existing drying, conditioning, and finishing facilities. This expansion has allowed more Tasmanian Oak processing to take place on site, improving quality control and overall efficiency. By bringing more of the supply chain under one roof, Porta has reduced reliance on external processors and strengthened its operational reliability.

Harnessing the Power of the Sun

The expansion created the perfect opportunity to rethink energy use. In partnership with EB Solar, we invested in a large-scale rooftop system designed to meet the increased power needs of the upgraded facilities. The installation now offsets around 60 per cent of the site’s total electricity consumption, marking a major step towards lower emissions and greater energy independence.

EB Solar worked closely with the shed manufacturer to increase the solar array’s capacity while maintaining skylights that maximise natural light. This balance between power generation and daylight access reduces the need for artificial lighting, further improving energy efficiency and lowering running costs.

Precision Design and Local Collaboration

The system was designed specifically for the Bridgewater site through detailed energy assessments and collaboration with TasNetworks to ensure a smooth grid connection. The installation includes a 320-kilowatt solar system, featuring 1,015 high-efficiency JA Solar panels and three ABB PVS100 inverters.

This investment makes Bridgewater one of Tasmania’s leading industrial solar projects, showing that sustainability and manufacturing can work together to deliver measurable benefits.

Driving Environmental and Industry Progress

The Bridgewater solar project highlights Porta’s broader commitment to responsible manufacturing and innovation. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and long-term energy costs, the initiative delivers both environmental and commercial gains.

Beyond its direct impact, the project strengthens the sustainability credentials of our Tasmanian Oak supply chain. It supports local industry and demonstrates how renewable energy can successfully integrate into modern manufacturing operations.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Bridgewater solar project reinforces Porta’s position as an Australian manufacturer focused on progress. By combining renewable technology with local expertise, we are shaping a cleaner, more efficient future for the construction industry and the communities we serve.

At Porta, sustainability isn't just a word. It's about continually working to reduce our impact.