Enphase Energy, a leader in solar energy and home battery technology, has taken sustainability to new heights with the introduction of a trade stand made entirely from recyclable cardboard at the All Energy Exhibition in Melbourne last October.
The innovative 10m x 5.5m structure, designed in collaboration with sustainable packaging leader Opal, is claimed as one of the largest cardboard structures of its kind in Australia, the company said in a news release.
This eco-friendly stand represents a bold move towards sustainability in event management, eliminating more than 80 per cent of the waste generated by traditional exhibition stands.
Patrick Matweew, general manager at Enphase Energy ANZP, highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
“From the beginning, we’ve designed disruptive solar technology and solutions with a long-term view on product lifecycle, reducing waste, and maximising clean energy outcomes.”
Matweew added, “Our partnership with Opal to create the fully recyclable trade stand is another powerful demonstration of how Enphase supports and leads sustainable innovation. The initiative perfectly aligns with our purpose to advance a sustainable future for all.”
The stand, which includes a life-size cardboard house, is entirely recyclable and can be installed by just three people within 12 hours.
It can be packed down in only six hours, offering a quick and efficient alternative to conventional exhibition setups.
Chris Daly, Executive General Manager at Opal, emphasised the structural engineering behind the project: “Using clever design and structural engineering, Opal was able to deliver a life-size cardboard house that has structural integrity and is robust.”
Opal, one of the largest sustainable packaging providers in Australia and New Zealand, focuses on replacing non-recyclable plastic packaging with fibre-based solutions, contributing to a circular economy.
Enphase Energy’s new trade stand also serves as an educational space for solar installers, offering hands-on training on solar, battery, and EV charging solutions.
With a growing number of Australian homes incorporating energy systems, Enphase anticipates that the number of solar installations will rise significantly, with projections indicating that 80 per cent of homes will have solar by 2050.
The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), a leader in sustainability practices, supported the project.
Kristen Gillespie, Sustainability and Impact Manager at MCEC, stated, “We’re excited to host such a forward-thinking project.”
RX Global, the exhibition management group behind the All Energy Expo, also expressed pride in the initiative.
Holly Tankard, senior marketing Manager at RX Global, remarked, “The All Energy Australia Exhibition and Conference Expo is the ideal platform to showcase this green initiative.”
