Emerald Community House: 2022 Finalist – Sustainable places and destinations
Last updated: 14 August 2023
A community not-for-profit grocery in Emerald is now powered by clean, green, off-grid solar energy. Listed by the National Trust, the once derelict Old Emerald Bakehouse is the only off-grid business operating solely on solar power, without any mains power connection, in the largest and oldest town in the Dandenong Ranges.The off-grid solar system provides renewable power to the Dig In Community Grocery.
Operated by Emerald Community House, the grocery sells food that is organic, locally grown or locally produced, cutting down on the cost and impact of transportation. It also provides free food to those on a tight budget or doing it tough.