Grants for Energy Projects

AUSTRALIA - A project converting sugar to ethanol has won an Australian Federal Government grant of almost A$3 million.

It is the largest sum offered in the latest round of Climate Ready grants, which handed out more than A$16 million to a range of green projects.

The funding of A$2,935,653 is for the second stage of a project by Ethanol Technologies Ltd that will convert sugar industry waste into ethanol.

The project will be based at the Harwood Sugar Mill.

The second highest amount in funding of A$2,331,658 went to TSS Construction for the development of a transportable hydrocarbon waste convertor for coal mines.

The system will develop cleaner fuel and minimise mine waste.

Another grant of A$492,835 to Selectroni Australia will help to develop systems to enhance the performance and rel;iability of renewable energy systems such as wind and solar power.

Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr said: "The Rudd Government is committed to supporting industry to adapt to the challenges of climate change, but also to seize the opportunities for innovation in combating its effects.

"The projects funded under Climate Ready will improve the environment and create the kind of high-wage, high-skill jobs that drive economic recovery.

"Through the Climate Ready program, innovative companies have an opportunity to create new industries by turning good ideas into commercial reality.

"Climate Ready offers dollar-for-dollar support with grants from A$50,000 to A$5 million."