The Andrews Labor Government has launched a cutting edge recycling facility in Melbourne’s north that will reduce landfill, cut greenhouse emissions and produce enough renewable energy to pay for itself.
Minister for Water Lisa Neville officially opened the Yarra Valley Water’s $27 million Waste to Energy facility in Wollert.
The purpose-built facility converts organic waste such as food scraps, which would otherwise be bound for landfill, into renewable energy.
The amount of energy produced by the new facility is the equivalent of about 25 per cent of Yarra Valley Water’s overall energy requirements.
It’s enough to power the adjacent sewage treatment plant and export surplus electricity exported to the grid as renewable energy – making the facility not just environmentally sustainable but also commercially viable.
The Labor Government’s climate change plan for water – Water for Victoria – requires the water sector to be a leader in climate change mitigation and adaption.
Water for Victoria also requires the water sector to adopt the Labor Government’s renewable energy target of at least 25 per cent renewable energy by 2020.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“This project is a great example of our water authorities meeting the challenges of the future, including climate change and population growth – a key objective of our Water for Victoria policy.”
“By generating its own energy, rather than being dependent on purchasing energy, the facility will put downwards pressure on water bills for consumers.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“This new renewable energy facility will reduce green house gasses, boost growth and investment in our economy – creating more Victorian jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny
“Locals want action on climate change, action on renewable energy and action on power bills – this plant delivers all this.”
Quote attributable to Managing Director Yarra Valley Water Pat McCafferty
“While similar facilities are in place in other parts of the world, a great deal of work was needed to determine whether we could make a facility of this kind a success in the Australian market.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020