LEICHHARDT MP Warren Entsch has welcomed news of another renewable energy initiative for the Far North, with the announcement today that MSF Sugar will build a $75 million ‘green’ power station at its Tableland Sugar Mill, near Mareeba (pictured).
“This is fantastic news ? I really commend MSF Sugar for looking to diversify its business by moving away from producing raw sugar alone, which will make it more economically resilient to changes in the sugar market.
“This project will boost options for skilled employment on the Tableland during both the build and operational phases, and local contractors and businesses will also benefit with a significant amount of the project cost to be spent within the region.”
Mr Entsch added that the project will help Australia to meet its Renewable Energy Target, and noted that the Northern Australia White Paper identifies renewables as continuing to play an important ongoing role in the development of the North.
“Along with the Mt Emerald Wind Farm, this power station ? fuelled by bagasse and other by-products ? will improve the efficiency and dependability of the electricity supply for Tablelanders and possibly further afield.
“Like the $42.5m solar and storage project near Lakeland, these renewable energy projects are an opportunity for Far North Queensland to showcase innovative methods, technical expertise and improved reliability in renewable energy ? it’s fantastic to see this investment in our region.”
