“Energy-efficient lighting upgrade work has already been undertaken at the Fyshwick offices on Canberra Avenue, Dickson and Woden public libraries, Dame Pattie Menzies House in Dickson and a number of ACT Government-occupied floors in 12 Moore Street in Civic,” said Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Shane Rattenbury.

“Dame Pattie Menzies House was the first building to be upgraded mid-2011 and the first 12 months of consumption data has indicated electricity savings of more than 30 per cent. The energy upgrade cost $178,000 to install and it has already made savings in the order of $113,000 in both energy and maintenance costs.”

Proposed buildings to receive the new upgrade work include major ACT Government buildings such as North Building in Civic; various ACT Government depots; Belconnen and Kippax public libraries; and various small-to-medium-sized tenanted buildings.

“The project will not only provide cost savings for the ACT Government and tenants of these buildings, but will also contribute to the ACT Government’s commitment under the Weathering the Change policy to reduce carbon emissions,” Rattenbury said.

“Other key benefits of the project are that the LED lamps used are fully recyclable, do not emit UV and will last over 10 years. This will significantly reduce maintenance costs for the tenant.

“ACT Property Group will now undertake a detailed assessment of the nominated buildings, consult with the tenants and then commence the tender process for the first stage of installations early-2013.”

The project has been funded through the ACT Government’s Carbon Neutral Government Fund.