Lake Macquarie City Council has converted its seventh major building to solar power.

The council has installed solar facilities on Charlestown Library, following other council buildings including the art gallery, works depot and the State Emergency Service office.

Lake Macquarie City Council acting manager sustainability, Symon Walpole said solar power systems capable of generating 95 kilowatts have been installed across council’s major buildings.

Mr Walpole said council is always looking for ways to save money and reduce carbon emissions, with solar being the way to make “real and lasting reductions”.

“Council’s moves to convert to solar will save the city and its ratepayers around $38000 every year and with electricity prices rising by an estimated 20 per cent from July 1, the savings for residents will continue to grow,” Mr Walpole said.

According to the council, it has reduced its own carbon emissions by 146 tonnes a year, with residents also possessing 5000 solar power systems generating energy on their own rooftops.

The council made these savings public with a total benefits per annum being $6150 for the Toronto Multi Purpose Centre; $6272 for the works depots; the art gallery for $8760; Speers Point Pool for $4257; Landcare Office for $5519 and the SES Office for $4380.

With the addition of Charlestown Library with savings of $2920, the savings total at $38000.