Retirees adopt early innovation

A semi retired Gold Coast couple will become among the first in Queensland to power their home by battery as the revolutionary Tesla power-saving system sweeps the world.Bob and Pam Jones, who are building a home at waterfront over 50s community Vision by Halcyon, are installing the Tesla system which could almost enable them to live ‘off the grid’.The battery system stores electricity generated from rooftop solar panels during the day so that power can be used throughout the night.Mr Jones said the Tesla system would more than pay for itself over the next decade.“As well as the financial spin-off, we’ll be able to significantly reduce our carbon footprint,” Mr Jones said.“Being less reliant on the electricity grid means we are insulated from energy price rises and the inconvenience of black-outs.”The couple’s two-storey waterfront home features a lift, several entertainment zones and includes two marina berths.Mr Jones said the couple would also incorporate a state-of-the-art C-Bus home automation system.“The system allows you to control everything electronic, from the lights to the air-conditioning, all from your iPad,” he said.Halcyon joint managing director Bevan Geissmann said the Jones’ were representative of a growing number of modern seniors who sought energy efficiency and technological innovations in their homes.“This is the way of the future, not just for retirees but for all home owners,” Dr Geissmann said.“It’s great to see seniors have been so receptive to new innovations such as these.“They understand the financial benefits but there is also a desire to tread lighter on the earth in their later years.“We are currently looking at how we can incorporate Tesla into the final release at our Vision by Halcyon community.”Halcyon has championed environmentally sustainable development in Queensland over 50s communities, receiving numerous UDIA state and national accolades in the area.At the company’s Sunshine Coast community, Halcyon Landing, the developer fitted all 171 homes with solar panels as standard, meaning some home owners could even supply electricity to the grid and receive a return on their solar investment.Vision by Halcyon will ultimately feature 88 luxury, energy efficient homes.It is the first community of its kind to offer absolute waterfront living and also features a marina, floating boat house and signature Lifestyle and Aquatic Precinct.The final release of homes is selling at Hope Island, priced from $599,000, including up to $10,000 in off-the-plan incentives. Pricing rises to $944,000 to $1.360 million for expansive waterfront dwellings.For project enquiries please call 1800 831 567 or visit lifebeginsathalcyon.com.au.