Case Study
Martin’s Fruit World
Project Size:
39.2kW Rooftop Solar
Martin’s Fruit World isn’t just a trusted name in fresh local produce, it’s also a business committed to a sustainable future. By partnering with Smart Commercial Solar, the family-run store has installed a rooftop solar system that now powers its daily operations with clean, renewable energy. This move not only reduces operating costs but also sets an example for small businesses across regional Australia.
The solar initiative reflects more than just an upgrade, it’s a forward-thinking investment in energy independence and community leadership.
Key Project Stats
160MWh in daily generation
70 -80% self-sufficiency overall
Reliable refrigeration powered by solar
OBJECTIVES
Martin’s Fruit World set out with a clear goal: to cut down on energy costs and lessen their environmental footprint, all while keeping the perfect conditions for storing and selling fresh produce. Their main priorities were:
- Cutting down the rising costs of electricity
- Enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions
- Supporting refrigeration needs with clean, reliable power.
- Ensuring store operations remain unaffected during the transition
Through partnering with Smart Commercial Solar, Martin’s aimed to embed solar into the heart of their day-to-day business. As owner Martin Papas put it:“We’ve always believed in doing things the right way—supporting local, cutting waste, and now, cutting emissions. Going solar was the next logical step.”
SOLUTION
Smart Commercial Solar developed and installed a 39.2kW solar PV system designed specifically for Martin’s operational needs. The system was optimised to align with the store’s peak energy consumption periods and to maintain uninterrupted power supply for refrigeration and point-of-sale systems.
“We designed the system to take full advantage of Luddenham’s sunny climate, delivering strong results without disrupting daily operations. It’s a compact setup that really delivers."
Senior Project Manager, AYKA Solar
CHALLENGES
Installing a solar energy system in a small business environment brought specific challenges:
- Ensuring continuous power supply to refrigeration units critical for perishable produce
- Working with limited roof space and structural conditions
- Navigating semi-rural grid constraints
The Smart Commercial Solar team worked closely with Martin’s Fruit World to create a custom system that maintained reliability and efficiency without disrupting daily operations.
“Smart understood how important this was to our store. The install went smoothly and the support has been outstanding—this was a smart investment in every sense.”
Martin Papas, Owner, Martin’s Fruit World
THE FUTURE
With the initial solar setup proving successful, Martin’s Fruit World is now:
- Considering battery storage to make use of solar energy after sunset
- Sharing their positive experience with other local businesses
- Embracing sustainability as a key part of their brand to connect with eco-minded customers
“This project isn’t just cutting our energy costs—it’s also helping us do the right thing for the environment. For us, it’s about being a good neighbour and a responsible part of the Luddenham community.”
Martin Papas
More Projects
Austpath Laboratories, Northmead, NSW – 100kW
Overview: Installed a 100kW on-grid solar system with 263 REC 380W panels and German-made SMA inverters.
Outcome: Significant reduction in operational costs and environmental footprint with high-efficiency panels and reliable inverter technology.
Church, Thornleigh, NSW – 25kW
Overview: Installed a 25kW solar system with Longi panels and a European-made Fronius inverter.
Outcome: Consistent energy savings and reduced grid dependence for the church.
Fruit World, Luddenham, NSW – 40kW
Overview: Installed a 40kW solar system using Trina panels and a 29.9kW Huawei inverter.
Outcome: Enhanced energy efficiency and reduced electricity bills through consistent energy production.
Swimming center, Hornsby, NSW – 38.7kW
Overview: A 38.7kW system with Longi Half-Cut Monocrystalline 450W panels and a 29.9kW Huawei inverter was deployed.
Outcome: Reduced energy expenses and a greener footprint with high energy yield.
Commercial Installation – 22.2kW
A 22.2kW system was installed using a combination of an Austrian made Fronius inverter and Trina 370W Half cell monocrystalline panels in solar power plant.
Supreme Engineering, Blacktown, NSW – 20kW
Overview: A 20.7kW system with Longi panels and a 20kW Fronius inverter was deployed.
Outcome: Reduced energy expenses and a greener footprint with A powerful and efficient system
