[Greens-Media] WA Greens - Fired up on Bunbury Solar Hub - Paul Llewellyn

[Anderson, Sonia]

29 August 2008

FIRED UP ON BUNBURY SOLAR HUB

Greens MLC Paul Llewellyn is calling for investigation of a solar hub at Bunbury that will use cutting edge technology to produce photovoltaic grade silicon, and will be part of a renewable energy research and development centre.

"Solar panels use high grade silicon in their manufacture, and with world wide demand for the substance growing at 35% per year, there is a unique opportunity for a clean green industry to be based right here in the south west.

"Our research shows that there are new processes that aim to manufacture photovoltaic grade silicon at a fraction of the cost of the conventional Siemens method, and without the environmental impact - this deserves serious attention," Mr Llewellyn said.

"Bunbury will be ideally situated to host a centre of excellence for solar technology if it hosts a world class industrial facility to manufacture silicon wafers and solar panels for the renewable energy industry.

"Such a centre of excellence could also engage with "smart grid" technologies that help to integrate solar power into local power grids and control demand from energy hungry appliances, such as hot water systems and reverse cycle air conditioners at peak times.

"Western Australia needs an integrated response to climate change, and setting up a renewable energy centre in Bunbury is a key part of the Greens vision for a clean energy future."