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The Victorian government’s push for renewable energy has received a boost from 20 companies which submitted tenders to develop Victoria’s geothermal power, accodring to Energy Industries and Resources Minister, Theo Theophanous, said.
Theophanous said that while Victoria’s geothermal energy resources have scarcely been tapped, there is a genuine level of support for the new technology in the state’s business community. “Victoria’s geothermal industry is just in its infancy, but industry has shown its support for this source of clean energy”, he said.
“While any large scale project may be years from construction, further exploration and improved technology could lead to a new way to power Victoria’s homes and businesses.” The 20 tender applications will be assessed by a tender panel and an announcement on the winners is expected in early 2007.
Theophanous said Victoria was leading the country in developing and promoting new clean and green energy technologies, such as geothermal power, thanks in part to the Victorian Renewable Energy Target (VRET). “Earlier this year we became the first Australian state to announce its own mandatory renewable energy target and supporting scheme”, Theophanous said.
“The VRET will cut 27 MMt of greenhouse gas emissions and reduce our reliance on traditional coal fired power stations by promoting renewable energy such as geothermal, wind, solar and hydro electricity.” |
