Supporting frontline responders with reliable, off-grid power
In September 2025, Rainbow Power Company (RPC) donated solar and battery systems to the Blue Knob and Hanging Rock Rural Fire Service (RFS) Brigades, ensuring that both stations can remain operational during power outages and emergencies.
The initiative reflects RPC’s deep connection to the Northern Rivers community — supporting local volunteer brigades that play a crucial role in disaster response and recovery.
Project Overview
When grid power fails during severe weather or bushfires, local brigades face more than just blackouts — essential equipment like truck bay doors, radios, and battery chargers can be rendered useless.
To address this, RPC provided each brigade with a custom solar and battery backup system, allowing them to maintain continuous power for essential services and communications. The systems now keep truck bay doors, vehicle batteries, radios, torches, and fridges running when the grid goes down, ensuring operational readiness at all times.
What They Said
“These systems ensure our fire trucks remain operational during extended power outages. The tracks on our truck bay doors rely on trickle chargers to keep batteries from going flat. Without power, that becomes a serious problem. Having a backup gives us peace of mind that we can respond whenever we are needed.”
— Ken Wallis, Blue Knob RFS
“I’m chuffed about this donation. During the 2022 floods, we were isolated for days with road closures, and this system would have made a significant difference. If we have power when others don’t, we can become a crucial base for emergency operations in the area.”
— Kelly Pittaway, Captain, Hanging Rock RFS
“Rainbow Power Company’s future is grounded in community, and supporting our emergency services is a natural extension of that.”
— Matthew Wittemeier, CEO, Rainbow Power Company
The System
- System type: Off-Grid Solar + Battery Backup
- Application: Emergency service operations
- Purpose: Maintain power for essential equipment, communications, and vehicle systems during blackouts
Key benefits:
- Reliable off-grid backup for critical systems
- Supports emergency communications via Starlink satellite connections
- Reduces diesel generator reliance and operational downtime
Project Outcomes
- Operational continuity during blackouts — trucks, radios, and base facilities stay powered.
- Enhanced disaster readiness — local brigades can now serve as community hubs during emergencies.
- Improved communication resilience — solar systems support Starlink satellite connectivity.
- Community empowerment — strengthens local safety and independence from grid disruptions.
Community Impact
During the 2022 floods, widespread power and communication outages left communities isolated. With solar and battery systems now in place, local brigades are equipped to act as emergency coordination points, providing critical support and connectivity when the region needs it most.
As Ken Wallis noted, “Everything depends on electricity these days, so having a reliable backup for essential services is invaluable. This donation ensures our brigade can keep serving the community even when the grid is down.”
Supporting the Region’s Frontline
Since 1987, Rainbow Power Company has been pioneering renewable energy across the Northern Rivers. From homes and schools to emergency services, RPC continues to deliver reliable solar solutions that empower communities and strengthen local resilience.
Interested in community energy partnerships?
📞 Call 02 6689 1430 or email team@rpc.com.au to discuss your project.
