Can Noosa's Greenest Resort Get Any Greener? Yes. New Sun Smart Buggies Outshine Electric Counterparts

solar powered buggy

Noosa's greenest esort has added two more strings to its 'eco' bow with the arrival of brand new solar powered electric buggies at Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort and Spa.

The new six-seater solar buggies have replaced the resort's existing electric buggies offering guests an even greener ride between the resort and Hastings Street.

Economical to run and maintain, the solar buggies use an innovative 'active charging process' harnessing the sun's rays to deliver an increased travelling range, while using less mains power, and leading to increased battery life while preventing sulphur build-up in their high-tech 'Trojan' batteries.

In addition, the buggies feature 'regenerative braking' technology to reduce the overall energy required to power the vehicle. This technology captures energy generally lost in the braking process in conventional electric vehicles and recycles it back into the battery cells to re-charge them.

The end result is that the buggies don't require electrical charging as often or for as long as a conventional buggy – which is a 'win win' for the environment.

Commenting on the resort taking another step forward in co-existing with its natural surroundings was general manager of Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort, Niel Mason.

“Our location in the heart of the Noosa Biosphere and position beside Noosa National Park is not taken for granted,” Mason said. “We are constantly striving to introduce new technologies to lessen our impact on the environment.”

“A study conducted by Singapore Polytechnic found that a buggy with 420 watts of solar panels installed can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 280 kilograms per year; and we are proud to be contributing to a greener environment by reducing energy use recycling solar power.

“The EMC branded solar buggies feature the latest technology in their field and we will continue to identify and introduce new and sustainable practices throughout Outrigger Little Hastings Street above and beyond the requirements of our formal Green Star Rating,” Mason added.

Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort and Spa has introduced a number of other energy saving measures to support its sustainable building and landscaping design that includes extensive water harvesting systems and mixed use of gas and solar power throughout the resort.

“We have also replaced our oil based plastic take-away and room service packaging with recycled plant based utensils and containers, and are also reviewing the LED lighting throughout the common property areas for further energy savings,” Mason added.

In August 2013, Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort and Spa was also the first resort in the region to introduce a new range of Pedego electric cruiser bikes, which have become popular transport alternatives for guests whilst reducing their reliance on motor vehicle use during their stays.

For more information, visit Outrigger Hotels and Resorts at booth #265 in the Queensland exhibit area in Hall C. www.outriggeraustralia.com