New solar business launch

Forbes Advocate
Thursday 10/4/2008 Page: 4

In Forbes this morning Forbes Mayor, Rhonda Keane, will officially welcome a major new employer to Forbes this morning when Albury Consolidated Industries launches its solar technology company, Powered by Nature. Mayor Keane will launch the company at the Council Chambers at 10am. Powered by Nature has come about through the relocation of the solar energy division of Albury Consolidated Industries, prompted by the results of the Economic Development Strategy for Forbes Shire Council undertaken by Aurora Research.

The strategy identified opportunities for new businesses to operate in the Forbes district. Councillor Keane has welcomed the new business to town. She said it was an exciting development for Forbes as the potential for Powered by Nature is staggering. "Through the Economic Development Strategy produced by Aurora Research, Forbes has been trying to attract new businesses to town to boost its own economy and help create employment opportunities," Mayor Keane said.

Powered by Nature is at the forefront in solar technology with products developed for solar hot water and solar power. Operations manager, Tristan Black, said a building has been purchased in Forbes and is being converted for use in solar manufacturing and development. "Powered by Nature will be looking to expand its operations in Forbes over the next few years as new solar power products are developed," Mr Black said. "The recruitment of local staff will be a priority in seeing the project reach its hill potential," he said.