The Victorian Government is encouraging businesses in Gippsland to develop renewable energy projects through the $20million New Energy Jobs Fund.
The fund will support growth in the uptake of renewable energy generation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, drive innovation in new energy technologies, and assist community groups to develop renewable energy projects.
Advances in technology have triggered a wave of ‘smart’ energy technologies such as in-home displays, smart meters, energy storage, electric vehicles, and decreasing the cost of distributed generation.
Grants of between $50,000 and $1million, and under exceptional circumstances, up to $2 million are available to support new energy technology projects.
This forms part of the Victorian Government’s $200million Future Industries Fund to support high growth, high value industries that are critical to securing Victoria’s future as a competitive, innovative and outward looking economy.
Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said,“We can build a strong, sustainable energy industry that powers our broader economy, creates well-paid jobs and delivers health and social benefits, while reducing our environmental impact.”
Up to $5million will be made available in the first funding round. Communities, industry and businesses have until 16 March 2016 to apply.
The Victorian Government is currently developing a Renewable Energy Action Plan to capture Victoria’s share of the investment in renewable energy expected to occur in Australia by 2020.
It is also working with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency to identify funding programs and initiatives that could leverage support for projects through the New Energy Jobs Fund.
Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, said, “I encourage local businesses to learn more about the New Energy Jobs Fund, which provides a great opportunity to bring jobs to our community through building our clean energy sector.”
