HT / Willie Soon
A solar-powered zero-emissions ‘smart prison’ that provides inmates with tablets and laptops in their cells will open in 2025.
But the use of networked devices will be restricted to a prison-wide intranet.
These tablets and laptops in the cell are connected to the secure prison intranet, but do not have wider internet access.
“This means that inmates can access information about the prison they are in,” a spokesperson for Prisoners’ Education told MailOnline.
‘For example, they can make an appointment with the prison doctor, or sign up for library books, or see how many credits they have for calling the family.
‘They can also read information that will help with their relocation, such as advice on finding a home or a job.’
Fun.
‘You cannot allow prisoners to access the internet or access social media. So providing technology to prisoners is a challenge, but it can be done safely and securely if the technology base is strong and there is good governance.
‘Devices need to be permanently off the internet and are designed to educate and prepare prisoners for work. They also need to be supervised.
‘Our research shows that the public supports the education of prisoners and wants them to find work. In today’s world, this means using technology. ‘
It’s a lengthy, detailed article about the prison’s architecture and technology as well as energy, net zero, and heat pumps.
Net zero emissions means that any carbon emissions from the UK will be balanced out by schemes to offset an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
An all-electric design, more efficient solar panels, heat pumps and lighting will reduce energy needs, eliminating the need for gas boilers.
During construction, 40,000 tons of carbon will be prevented by using recycled concrete and steel.
Electric vehicle charging points are also expected to be built around the prison’s parking lot for staff and visitors.
Gut feeling: feeding troughs are extremely expensive for thought-engine consultants. Check all the boxes.
Getting all the parts working together will likely be a story of ongoing costs from running, procrastination, and wringing hands.
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