Some say yes, but a new report estimates that solar photovoltaic and onshore wind could produce some of the lowest electricity generation costs in Australia by 2030, based on current policy settings. [ + ]

A recent survey by energy management company Energy Action revealed that more than 87% of businesses ranked price the most important consideration when selecting their energy retailer. However, the cost of energy itself is only one portion of the overall price that an organisation pays for its energy supply. [ + ]

As one of the first buildings in Australia to showcase Colorbond Coolmax steel, Hervey Bay Community Centre successfully combines environmentally sustainable design principles and a pleasing aesthetic. Its unique ‘island-like’ structure means the building can be viewed from 360° while also making a statement with its thermal efficiency. [ + ]

The Urban Renewal Authority of Victoria which operates as Places Victoria sought to specify a comprehensive portfolio of best-practice building technologies including an integrated water-cycle management system for The Nicholson project in inner suburban East Coburg. As well as reducing the use of valuable drinking water, the provision of a non-potable water supply at The Nicholson has helped insulate residents from rising costs for water and sewerage. [ + ]

In view of soaring energy prices and ambitious climate-protection targets, modern industry is experiencing unprecedented pressure to make production processes as efficient as possible. In addition to this, companies also have to maintain and increase their competitive edge, as well as strive to ensure sustained economic success. [ + ]

A recent survey by energy management company Energy Action revealed that more than 87% of businesses ranked price the most important consideration when selecting their energy retailer. However, the cost of energy itself is only one portion of the overall price that an organisation pays for its energy supply. Typically, energy charges only make up 40-50% of a bill, with the remainder made up of network, environmental and other service-related charges. The tariffs for network charges vary according to the amount of electricity consumed and when it is used. [ + ]

A new cutting-edge research group has been launched to investigate the impact that the coal seam gas, mining and agriculture industries have on Queensland’s most valuable underground resource - water. [ + ]

Companies are continually being challenged to improve productivity to meet consumer demand, while minimising the impact of rising costs associated with energy and raw materials. Remanufacturing allows products to be restored to ‘like new’ or better condition, extending equipment life and enhancing its performance. Julian Needham, Customer Support & Maintenance Operations Manager, Rockwell Automation, discusses the benefits of remanufacturing in the current global environment. [ + ]

The production of some of Australia’s favourite beverages will become greener thanks to a partnership between CO2 Australia and the brewers of the famous Bundaberg Ginger Beer, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks. [ + ]

Curtin University researchers will develop new technology for reducing carbon dioxide emissions after receiving $1 million of state government funding. [ + ]

In August, the Council of Australian Governments will consider the proposed national container deposit scheme (CDS). The scheme, which would involve consumers paying a 10-cent deposit on beverage containers and claiming it back at recycling depots, has attracted a large amount of support from environmental groups - and opposition from the beverages industry. As the national CDS gains further public and political interest, Sustainability Matters takes a look at both sides of the argument so far. [ + ]

The Thiess Services’ Portable Automated Logger System or PALS was recently used for flood monitoring in Victoria. 10 PALS units were deployed to the field to monitor the level and duration of flood inundation. Each unit took only a couple hours to deploy before it began transmitting real-time data at 10-minute intervals back to the hosted website. [ + ]

The ‘virtual control room’ concept for treatment plants and pipeline system operations has been introduced by Water Infrastructure Group. The company partnered with Eurobodalla Shire Council and NSW Department of Public Works to deliver a high-tech Northern Water Treatment Plant at Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast. The Virtual Control Room was recognised at the 2012 Institute of Public Works NSW Engineering Excellence Awards receiving the Innovation in Water Supply and Wastewater - Operations award. [ + ]

Hunter Water needed to improve the efficiency of its Burwood Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) due to ageing water infrastructure and tougher environmental legislation. The enhancements included migrating the automation control system over a tight eight-week time period, allowing no room for error or plant downtime. [ + ]

ResourceCo’s recycled cement has been a key component in the refurbishment of the Civil Contractor’s Federation (CCF) head office and training facility redevelopment. The CCF SA’s Centre of Excellence is being showcased as a ‘model’ for best practice environmental and sustainable construction initiatives. [ + ]