Hervey Bay Solahart wins group's dealership of the year

A STRONG focus on energy efficiency and quality over price has seen Hervey Bay Solahart take out both state and national Solahart Dealership of the Year.

Solahart Hervey Bay owner Darren Page has been named Dealer of the Year Australia 2012-13. Picture: Alistair Brightman

A STRONG focus on energy efficiency and quality over price has seen Hervey Bay Solahart take out both state and national Solahart Dealership of the Year.

The win is especially sweet for owner Darren Page after receiving the awards at Solahart's 60th anniversary celebrations in Sydney in May.

"It was a great time to win it," Mr Page said.

The business also took out an award for most sales.

Hervey Bay is one of the most-solar friendly cities in the country, with an increasing number turning to solar to fend off increases in electricity costs.

Mr Page said solar was a popular option among the region's large number of retirees.

"Older people seem to be a lot more switched on to saving for the long term," he said.

"Instead of thinking of next year, they are thinking of the next 10 years."

"They're trying to protect themselves from the increases that are coming."

Mr Page said there had been a definite increase in the number of people turning to solar power ahead of the 21% increase to the general household tariff, which went into effect on Monday.

The team has just released a new product expected to be especially popular in Hervey Bay, a solar-powered pool pump.

Mr Page said the pump, which was launched at the Rotary Living Expo over the weekend, could save households with a pool up to $500 a year on their electricity bills.