Clean energy plans

Bayside Bulletin
Tuesday 3/7/2007 Page: 3

CLEAN energy sources will hopefully supply at least half of Redland Shire's power needs in about five years, Mayor Don Seccombe has declared. He was speaking as Redland Shire Council unveiled a new green energy policy to encourage companies to invest locally in renewable energy technology such as solar, wind, wave and tidal power.

While specific projects were not spelt out in yesterday's Budget documents, the policy states the council will look at how it can support potential clean energy projects on a case-by-case basis. For example, financial grants and other support may be provided.

Cr Seccombe told the Bayside Bulletin he would like to get approvals in place for 50 per cent of the Shire's power to come from renewable sources by the end of the next council term in 3012. He said the Shire was blessed with numerous opportunities including North Stradbroke Island's strong winds, waves and tidal currents.

Cr Seccombe said the recently approved chicken-litter-fuelled biomass power plant at Mount Cotton would provide enough energy for up to 17 per cent of Redland Shire's needs. Ultimately, he wanted the see the Redlands become a "renewable energy shire" that was self-sufficient and could feed excess power into other areas. Cr Seccombe said he did not support nuclear power.