A renewable energy microgrid will be installed in the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in South Australia's Flinders Ranges after securing $1.3 million in federal government funding.
The project will be led by off-grid power company Apex Energy Australia, which has partnered with other groups including the Citizens Own Renewable Energy Network Australia (CORENA).
To be researched, developed and delivered over the next two to three years, the project is expected to include solar energy generation, battery storage technology and intelligent energy management solutions.
Work is scheduled to begin in November.
Apex Energy Australia Managing Director Paul Stallan said renewable energy technologies were the future of remote sites and communities.
"Ground-breaking projects like this are the key to a zero-emissions future and more resilient energy systems," he said.
CORENA patron Monica Oliphant said the organisation was committed to reducing greenhouse emissions by supporting projects that wouldn't otherwise happen.
"We have been working with Arkaroola for a number of years to see how we can help the sanctuary move away from its reliance on diesel and LPG," she said.
"With over 300 non-cloudy days per year it makes sense to go solar and suits the sustainability goals of the wilderness site."
Arkaroola is a popular destination for artists, astronomers, adventure bikers, birdwatchers, bushwalkers, four-wheel-drive enthusiasts and geologists.
The sanctuary showcases almost two billion years of geological history, dark skies for astronomical observations and unique wilderness.
But being 630 kilometres from Adelaide, it is isolated from the main electricity grid.
