Stored Sunshine: How the Nook Runs on Solar
When we built the Nook, we made a decision early: if we were going to ask people to come and experience this landscape, we should do as little damage to it as possible.
That started with the build itself β recycled materials, low-impact design, a structure that sits lightly on the hill. But the piece we’re most proud of is what we did with energy.
Solar, Done Properly
The Nook runs on solar. Not just a panel or two β a full system designed to power everything: heating, cooling, the spa, the kitchen, the lights. Stored in batteries so that cloudy days don’t mean cold showers.
Gariwerd gets a lot of sun. We figured we should use it. The system was sized to handle the peak of summer and carry us through winter with reserves to spare.
What This Means for Guests
Nothing changes for you β the Nook is warm in winter, cool in summer, and the hot water runs whenever you want it. The difference is that none of it comes from the grid.
We track the system’s output and share it if guests are curious. Most people are. There’s something satisfying about knowing the power that’s heating your spa came from the sky above you that afternoon.
The Bigger Picture
Sustainable accommodation in regional Victoria is still relatively rare done well. We’re not interested in greenwashing β just in making decisions that mean the landscape guests come to see stays intact for the next generation of visitors.
Stored sunshine. It’s a simple idea. We’re glad we built around it.
