Celebrating at electric funding win, Uralla Historical Society Sylvana ter Meulin, left, Kent Mayo, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Veronica Porter, Annie Mayo and President Louis Van Ekert.
Wednesday, 2 December 2020
URALLA’S historic McCrossin’s Mill is the latest community facility to plug into the benefits of solar power, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshal today announcing the State Government will provide $14,000 to install a 30-panel system on the prominent building.
Mr Marshall said the 10 kilowatt unit would make one of Uralla’s oldest buildings also one of town’s most environmentally sustainable.
“Where McCrossin’s Mill utilised the latest steam technology to power its flourmill in the 1860’s, it seems fitting in 2021 it will be using solar power to operate,” Mr Marshall said.
“Through this grant, Uralla Historical Society will install a 30-panel micro-inverter based solar power system and associated cabling on the roof tops around the McCrossin’s Mill garden.
“The replacement of the original mill roof using funds raised by UHS, has meant the structure is now strong enough to support a system of this kind.
“I’m pleased this project will also be charging the local economy, providing work for Uralla based Howard’s Electrical Service in the New Year.”
Uralla Historical Society President Louis Van Ekert said the dollars saved on the annual power bill would be reinvested into the upkeep of the important landmark.
“Ultimately, the public will be the main beneficiary of this project, with the solar allowing for improved lighting in the museum, and possibly improved heating in winter,” Mr Van Ekert said.
“In addition to the reduction in electricity usage costs we estimate that we will achieve $1,000 per annum direct surplus out of this project.
“This money will really help us get ahead financially, address maintenance issues as they arise and improve the general amenity of McCrossin’s Mill Museum.
“UHS is also very appreciative of the cooperation of Howard’s Electrical Service in the design and installation of this solar power system, and Adam for his support with this grant.”