Solar thermal one step closer for Port Augusta

The Greens have congratulated Alinta Energy for their decision to proceed with a feasibility study into a solar thermal power station with storage, in Port Augusta. 

“This is a great step forward for South Australia and a win for the dedicated Port Augusta community who have been campaigning for a base-load solar thermal power station for years,” South Australian Greens Senator Penny Wright said. 

“Solar thermal will keep jobs in Port Augusta, improve the health of the community and uniquely position the town for the future.

 “This is yet another reason for Tony Abbott to stop his attack on funding renewables, including his plan to axe the Australian Renewable Energy Agency which has provided crucial funding for Alinta’s feasibility study.

 “Cutting the Australian Renewable Energy Agency would jeopardise the future of solar thermal in Port Augusta and that would be a blow to the town and the wider South Australian community.

 “Alinta’s decision is a major step forward for renewables in South Australia and the government needs to support this future-focused innovation, not tear up funding for renewable energy.

 Senator Wright also acknowledged the advocacy work of the Repower Port Augusta Alliance.

 “South Australians who want to see a clean energy future will be greatly encouraged by today’s news and I’d personally like to thank the Repower Port Augusta Alliance and all those in the Port Augusta community for campaigning tirelessly in support of the transition away from coal.”