A giant chilled water-battery is using the solar energy generated by 6000 solar panels on top of roofs at the University of the Sunshine Coast to chill water and save 40 per cent of airconditioning costs.

The idea has been so successful it will cut the airconditioning costs of the entire university and save $100 million within the next 25 years, while reducing emissions.

Now the Queensland and Australia-first achievement has been recognised by scientists internationally.

The water battery – now in operation – last week won a category of the Global District Energy Awards for 'Out of the Box' ideas.