Putting clean energy projects on the map

On 17 May, the Minister for Climate Change, Industry and Innovation, Greg Combet, launched the Clean Energy Map at a press conference in Canberra. The online, Google-style map provides a visual representation of over 1200 nationwide projects, delivered by the Gillard government, which are cutting greenhouse gas emissions, reducing energy costs and investing in new technologies.

The Clean Energy Map is a one-stop-shop for people wanting to find information on clean energy projects. Visitors can enter their postcode, or use GPS functionality, to find information on projects in their region or neighbourhood. Results can be also filtered by key words and project type, eg, whether it’s conducted by local councils, industry or community groups.

Each project includes a brief description of its purpose, progress status and the environmental and economic outcomes it is expected to achieve. Where relevant, it displays funding from the Australian Government and contributing businesses or communities. Links are also included through to the relevant department responsible for administering the programs, as well as other sources of further information.

The initiatives range from equipment upgrades to manufacturing businesses to energy-efficiency measures for town halls and swimming centres.

“The Clean Energy Map shows there is widespread action around the country to tackle climate change and invest in renewable energy,” Combet said.

“Manufacturers are using carbon price revenue to invest in new equipment ranging from cogeneration plants to new refrigeration technologies, delivering significant cost savings.

“Community organisations, local councils and households are engaged in projects to use energy more efficiently and cost-effectively.

“Farmers and landholders are undertaking carbon farming projects which are reducing pollution on the land, cutting energy costs and generating new sources of income.”

A spokesperson for Combet told Sustainability Matters that development of the map commenced earlier this year and was jointly managed by the former Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency and the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education. The map is now managed by the Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education.

The spokesperson explained that the map is “being rolled out in a phased approach with key programs, primarily from within the government’s Clean Energy Future package, published on the map initially”.

The first phase includes projects from 16 programs and initiatives, including the Renewable Energy Target, Solar Cities, Energy Efficiency Information Grants, the Carbon Farming Initiative and the Clean Technology Programs. Other programs and projects, including those of Solar Schools, Australian Renewable Energy Agency and Green Building Fund, will be added in future.

“Evaluation of the Clean Energy Map is currently being undertaken to ensure it is achieving its aim of informing the Australian community about Clean Energy Future initiatives,” said the spokesperson. “Initial feedback on the Clean Energy Map received so far has been positive.”

To take a tour of the map, visit http://www.cleanenergymap.gov.au/.