Australian industry voices to be heard on clean technology programs

Australian businesses and industry groups can have their say on the Gillard Labor Government’s $1.2 billion Clean Technology programs, which are being developed to help manufacturers improve their energy efficiency and protect the environment.

Releasing a discussion paper, innovation minister Senator Kim Carr and climate change minister Greg Combet encouraged industry to respond and work with the government to realise the true potential for clean technology to transform Australian manufacturing, so it is competitive in the global markets of the future.

“The clean energy programs will reshape our economy, cut carbon pollution and drive innovation as we take action to tackle climate change,” Minister Combet said.

“They will support jobs and keep Australian industry strong while creating incentives to invest in clean energy and energy efficiency. This will ensure the economy remains competitive in a world which is moving to reduce carbon pollution,” Senator Carr said.

The ministers said a series of targeted consultation workshops around the country would give industry the opportunity to discuss the paper and give feedback that would guide the final design of the Clean Technology programs.

“We encourage all businesses and industry groups to offer their insights either at the consultation workshops or in a submission response to the discussion paper,” Senator Carr said.

“The Clean Technology programs, part of the Government’s Clean Energy Future package, will provide investment grants to manufacturers for energy-efficient capital equipment, low-pollution technologies, processes and products, research and development in renewable energy, low-pollution technology and energy efficiency,” Minister Combet said.

The discussion paper is available on www.innovation.gov.au.

Responses should be sent via email by Friday 21 October 2011.

Grant applications are expected to open in 2012.