Minister announces Wind Turbine will be built at Rottnest

23/10/01
A wind turbine that will provide power to run the new water desalination plant at Rottnest Island has been approved by both the public of Western Australia and the State Government.
Tourism and State Development Minister Clive Brown made the announcement today at an eco-tourism conference at Rottnest Island.
Mr Brown said the proposal to build an 80 metre wind tower on Mt Herschel had been open for public consultation during August.
He said of the 85 responses received, 81 had been positive, 2 negative and 2 neutral.
"The submissions indicated a range of views including; the tower would be a tourist attraction, would blend into the landscape and would be a reminder of the need to reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy.
"The Rottnest Island Authority have applied for a Federal Government grant to assist with the cost of construction of the wind turbine," Mr Brown said.
The wind turbine is expected to cost an estimated $1.6 million to construct, but will save over $330,000 each year on diesel costs alone.
The Minister said he was delighted the project had found the support of the public as well as the State Government and hoped the Federal Government would also provide the much needed financial support.
"This project will assist Rottnest and Western Australia to move closer to the goal of environmentally sustainable development and it also represents a unique opportunity to showcase alternative energy technology at work," Mr Brown said.
The Minister said if funding was forthcoming the Wind Turbine was expected to be built by mid to late 2002.
Media contact: Bev East on 9222 9699