In Norway, Halden prison, Østfold University College, and the control station at Svinesund have now received a total of over 6,000 square meters of solar cells on the roof. In total, the solar panels produce electricity equivalent to the consumption of 70 households.

“These are three projects that benefit both the climate and those who use the buildings. It is a win-win situation, which makes solar cells one of our focus areas”says Jarle Kvalvik Director for operation and maintenance at Statsbygg.

The three photovoltaic systems have a total cost of NOK 13 million. Work on the assembly began in February and was completed in September.

The solar cells in Halden prison make the prison the first in Norway with solar cells. Here, 2,500 square meters of solar panels have been installed. Østfold University College has got 3,000 square meters of solar cells on the roof, while the control station at Svinesund has got 750. In total, this is about the same area as a football field!

In total, the solar cells will be able to produce 1.1 million kWh per year. This corresponds approximately to the annual electricity consumption of 70 households .

“In Statsbygg, we have mapped all of our 2,300 buildings with a view to energy production on roofs. Approximately 250,000 square meters are well suited for solar cells. We are now looking forward to working further with new good projects,” says Jarle Kvalvik.

The new photovoltaic systems are part of the package of measures for green conversion , which the government launched last year. The package gave Statsbygg NOK 60 million for various climate and environmental initiatives.

In addition to the solar cells in Halden, Statsbygg has, among other things, used the funds for charging stations for electric cars, energy efficiency measures such as retrofit insulation and measures for emission-free construction sites.