Solar panels will be installed on Muswellbrook Courthouse as part of a NSW Government program aimed at improving the energy efficiency of the state's judicial buildings.
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Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell said Muswellbrook Courthouse will be one of the first in NSW to have photovoltaic solar panels installed as part of the statewide program.
"The building will also be fitted with energy-saving LED lighting, along with motion sensors in non-court areas such as meeting rooms and bathrooms. Those lights will only switch on when activated, saving electricity," Mr Layzell said.
NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman said the first stage of the courthouse solar program will see an overall investment of $1.8 million towards the installation of more than 3,000 solar panels across 23 courthouses in Sydney and regional NSW.
"While the judicial process is taking place inside these buildings, solar panels on the rooftops will be hard at work as well, contributing to a cleaner environment and saving taxpayer money," Mr Speakman said.
NSW Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said the solar projects will assist the NSW Government in meeting its commitment to double its total solar energy generation from 55,000 MWh to 126,000 MWh a year by 2024.
"Courthouses in stage one will generate an estimated 2,311 MWh of electricity per year and reduce carbon emissions by the equivalent of 360 average residential households," Mr Kean said.
Mr Layzell said in a statement the solar upgrades will take place in the first half of 2022 with other courthouses to be assessed for inclusion in the solar program in the next financial year.