Bulletin - Vol 9 No. 1 January/February 2006

Maatsuyker Island to be powered by renewable energy

Press release by Judy Jackson, MHA, Minister for Parks and Heritage, Tasmania
Tuesday, 31 January 2006

Inside the Maatsuyker Island Lighthouse lens Photo: Richard Bennett

The Tasmanian State Government will spend $103,572 to reduce greenhouse emissions at Maatsuyker Island by installing renewable energy equipment.

Parks and Heritage Minister Judy Jackson said a combination of wind, solar and diesel generated energy would provide more efficient and reliable electricity for the island, and will greatly reduce the use of diesel fuel.

“Hydro Tasmania will manage the project, with work to be carried out by Power Plus, a Tasmanian renewable energy systems installer,” she said. 

Maatsuyker Island Lighthouse Photo: Jeff Jennings

Ms Jackson said that Maatsuyker Island had special significance as a lighthouse, area and source of data for the Bureau of Meteorology.

The new power source would also contribute to the island’s status as a valuable scientific resource, as part of Tasmania’s Southwest National Park and the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

“At the moment, all the island’s electricity is provided through a diesel-powered generator, with diesel brought in by air”, Ms Jackson said. “There are problems with blackouts, and with fuel supply in bad weather. “Installation of a hybrid system, predominately using wind and solar energy sources, will improve conditions for the volunteer caretakers on Maatsuyker, reduce running costs and reduce greenhouse emissions”.

The Australian Government, through the Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP), would contribute $53,073 to the project.

This initiative is part of the State Government’s commitment to progressing Tasmania Together Goal 21 – Value, protect and conserve our natural and cultural heritage.

Source: http://www.media.tas.gov.au/release.php?id=17092

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