Home of the Melbourne Cup launches major commercial solar project with Sharp EIT Solutions

The Victoria Racing Club (VRC), custodians of Flemington Racecourse, home of the Melbourne Cup, has partnered with Sharp EIT Solutions on a major commercial solar project designed to support the venue’s long-term sustainability and energy efficiency goals.

As part of the multi-year partnership, Sharp EIT Solutions has been appointed the VRC’s Official Green Energy Partner and will deliver a large-scale solar installation across key Flemington Racecourse infrastructure, including the Hill Stand and Grandstand.

The initial installation will feature approximately 1,238 solar panels and a combined 767.56kW DC system designed to generate an estimated 1,007,436 kWh of renewable electricity annually.

The project represents the first stage of a broader long-term renewable energy strategy across Flemington Racecourse, with the potential to scale to approximately 2MW across the precinct over time.

The installation is expected to significantly reduce the VRC’s reliance on grid electricity while supporting operational efficiency and long-term sustainability outcomes across one of Australia’s most iconic sporting and entertainment destinations.

#Environmental Impact

The combined environmental impact of the system is estimated to be equivalent to:

"Now, eligible businesses could be looking at up to 30%- 70% reduction in energy bills over time through a tailored commercial solar system. The challenge for many organisations isn't the return on investment, it's finding the capital to get started. Through our partnership with DLL, we're helping businesses overcome that barrier by providing access to financing solutions that reduce upfront costs and make solar more accessible."

The partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between Sharp EIT Solutions and DLL, which has previously supported customers with financing solutions across managed print, IT hardware and LED display technology.

The expansion into commercial solar marks the next stage of the relationship, combining Sharp EIT Solutions' expertise in commercial solar design and deployment with DLL's experience in asset finance to help businesses accelerate investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

Mr Bernatovic said the partnership reflects changing attitudes among Australian businesses, which are increasingly viewing solar as both an operational and financial decision.

"We're seeing more businesses evaluate solar as a practical commercial investment that can help improve operational efficiency, reduce energy costs and strengthen long-term business resilience," he said.

"The ability to access finance gives organisations greater flexibility in how they invest, allowing them to move forward with projects that may otherwise be delayed while preserving capital for other business priorities."

Through the partnership, eligible businesses can explore financing options designed to help spread the cost of commercial solar investments over time, reducing the need for significant upfront capital expenditure.

Sharp EIT Solutions Strategic Growth & Technology Manager Aaditya Mehta said the partnership reflected a shared vision between both organisations.

“This partnership represents a long-term commitment to building more connected, future-focused and environmentally conscious venues and infrastructure,” Mehta said.

“We’re proud to partner with the Victoria Racing Club on a project that not only supports sustainability goals but also demonstrates what’s possible when major venues embrace renewable energy infrastructure at scale.”

Beyond the solar rollout, Sharp EIT Solutions will feature across the VRC racing calendar as an Official Partner of the VRC and race sponsor across key events throughout the Autumn, Winter and Melbourne Cup Carnivals.

The partnership includes naming rights to the Group 1 $2 million Sharp EIT All-Star Mile (1600m), Victoria’s premier autumn race and one of the world’s top 100 ranked races.

VRC Chief Executive - Kylie Rogers

“As a global leader in racing and major events, we are continually exploring opportunities to strengthen our sustainable business practices and future-proof our operations, this project allows us to reduce reliance on traditional electricity infrastructure while continuing to evolve Flemington Racecourse as a world-class venue for racing, entertainment and major events.”

For more than 20 years, Sharp EIT Solutions has delivered integrated business technology, communications, and infrastructure solutions to organisations across Australia. The Australian-owned company now operates nationally across Managed IT & Cybersecurity, LED Display Screens, Digital Screens & AV Solutions, Office Technology, and Commercial Solar & Battery Solutions.

Sharp EIT Solutions Managing Director Mario Bernatovic said the project reflects the growing momentum behind large-scale renewable infrastructure adoption across Australian businesses and venues.

“Commercial organisations are increasingly looking for smarter and more sustainable ways to manage long-term energy costs while improving operational efficiency,” Bernatovic said.

“This project, facilitated through Sharp EIT Finance , demonstrates how commercial solar can be successfully integrated into large-scale sporting and entertainment venues in a way that delivers both environmental and commercial outcomes.

“Sharp EIT Solutions supports commercial solar projects ranging from 20kW systems through to large-scale 1MW-plus deployments nationally.”