Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey has welcomed the Prime Minister’s re-affirmation of his electoral commitment to support the establishment of a solar thermal storage project in Port Augusta.
“The announcement is part of a deal to win Senator Xenophon’s support for widespread tax cuts for business to stimulate employment,” Mr Ramsey said.
“It is virtually the same as I announced during the election. The offer of a low-interest loan coming through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation has been available since that time.
“For the likely builders of this facility the challenge remains in finding someone willing to commit to a long-term take-off deal.”
Mr Ramsey said he was in regular contact with both the American developed Solar Reserve and the local Australian company Solastor.
“It has been a frustration that despite options for Commonwealth support through ARENA, the CEFC and the RET sitting on the table progress has been slow.
“Both parties have recently told me they have been negotiating with the South Australian Government for a long-term contract but as yet have not reached agreement.
“The Federal Government is committed to fulfilling its election commitment for solar storage at Port Augusta and anything that puts an extra spot light on the issue is welcome.”
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 08 8633 1744
April 3 2017
