Local tradies are being called upon by the NSW Government to install LED lights in public schools to improve classroom lighting and cut power bills.
The $157.8M LED Lighting Upgrade Program was launched last year as a stimulus response to the COVID-19 pandemic and is targeted at replacing old inefficient lights in NSW public schools with smart LED lights.
Now in its third tranche, the program will see more than 800 schools upgraded across the state.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Industry and Trade, John Barilaro, said this was an exciting opportunity for local tradies.
“As a former chippy I appreciate the ongoing impacts of this virus on local businesses, and the NSW Government is committed to supporting jobs and providing opportunities for tradies throughout the state,” he said.
Under this program, all LED lights will be manufactured in NSW and installed by local tradies.
Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said the improved lighting would have a positive impact on students’ education.
“The smart LED lights mimic natural light which can help students’ education by improving their attentiveness and comprehension.
“This program is a great way for schools to reduce their power and maintenance bills, while also providing work for local tradies,” she said.
Tradesmen can tender for lighting upgrade opportunities via the Local Trades Scheme, an online platform where small businesses can engage directly with the Department of Education to bid for work at public schools in their local communities.
Already hundreds of tender opportunities have been published via the Local Trades Scheme with more to come in the following weeks.
The LED Lighting Upgrade Program will bring savings on electricity bills and also improve the sustainability of schools and take steps towards the NSW Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Source:
Media release, Sep 24
NSW Government