Powering the future

Newcastle Herald
Thursday 26/7/2007 Page: 57

RESIDENTS of Scone are divided over the proposed $200 million Kyoto Energy Park, which will include several renewable energy alternatives for the Upper Hunter. Mark Sydney, director of Pamada, the company behind the project, believes eco-generating devices such as wind turbines, solar panels, a solar thermal plant and a closed-loop hydroelectric scheme could save natural resources and reduce fossil fuel usage and associated pollution.

Many local residents acknowledge the importance of renewable energy sources but are concerned about the negative visual impact. Other concerns include flickering lights, noise and the effect on native birds. Mountain and Middlebrook Stations, approximately 12 kilometres west of Scone, were among 11 sites identified as suitable for the generation of electricity through wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric means by the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability in 1995.

The proposal recommended a total of 47 turbines, with 12 turbines to be located at Middlebrook Station and 35 at Mountain Station. The wind turbines will be an estimated 150 metres tall, including the wings, which will be an estimated 50 metres in length. Pamada proposes to form the Mount Moobi Foundation to ensure a balanced and fair system to determine programs eligible for support.

The foundation would be chaired by six open-thinking, non-politically aligned individuals who would work with the community to support its programs and support the message that Scone is a clean and green community. "Wind and solar power can save our natural water, air, land, reduce pollution from fossil fuels and can avoid the burning of the equivalent 12,400 tonnes of coal per year," said Mr Sydney.

The energy park is expected to produce enough electricity to power the equivalent of 80,000 houses annually, and will be linked to existing power grids, with an anticipated grid connection of late 2010. During construction of the Park there will be approximately 2500 jobs. Once established it will provide 15 permanent care and maintenance positions. The Park is currently undergoing a comprehensive environmental impact study.