The latest update from the Minister of Innovation is as follows:
The Gillard Government is helping one of southern Queensland’s major meat manufacturers to invest in new, clean technology to improve its production efficiency and cut energy costs throughout its operations.
A $6.2 million grant from the Gillard Government’s Clean Technology Food and Foundries Investment Program has been awarded to AJ Bush & Sons for its rendering plant in the Bromelton State Development Area.
The Minister for Industry and Innovation Greg Combet said AJ Bush & Sons would upgrade or replace inefficient coal-fired boilers with high efficiency boilers, reducing the amount of black coal required during the steam raising process.
The company would also cover its anaerobic ponds to capture the methane gas currently emitted and use this as a renewable fuel source to power a new biogas boiler for steam production.
Mr Combet said the measurers would improve energy efficiency and deliver a significant reduction in the company’s direct carbon liability at the Bromelton plant.
“This project will reduce the carbon emissions intensity of AJ Bush & Sons’ steam raising production processes by 64 per cent and cut their energy cost by 46 per cent,” Mr Combet said.
“In order to make the transition to a low pollution economy, manufacturers need to transform their operations by investing in energy efficient equipment and technology.”
The company will match the Government grant on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
Funded by carbon price revenue, the Gillard Government’s $200 million Clean Technology Food and Foundries Investment Program has provided a total of $9.3 million in support to date to 12 meat processors, renderers and manufacturers of small goods around the country. The program is open to eligible manufacturers with funding provided over six years from 2011-12.
“The Gillard Government’s Clean Technology Investment Programs provide valuable support to manufacturers looking to improve their operations and competitiveness around Australia. They are an important part of our plan for a clean energy future,” Mr Combet said.
“I encourage manufacturers who are looking to make investments in energy efficient capital equipment to take a look at the guidelines and consider applying.”
For more information, manufacturers can contact AusIndustry on 13 28 46 or visit the website www.ausindustry.gov.au
