Renewable fuel plant to be established in the South-West

14/2/02 Western Australia's first commercial renewable fuel production plant has been proposed for establishment in Picton in the State's South-West.

14/2/02
Western Australia's first commercial renewable fuel production plant has been proposed for establishment in Picton in the State's South-West.
Premier Geoff Gallop today announced plans for a $12million plant that will manufacture 40 million litres of biodiesel fuel per annum. Biodiesel fuel is produced from lipids including tallow and canola oil for use in the transportation industry as a replacement for diesel fuel.
The plant will require up to 10 permanent workers and 20 contractors and sub-contractors upon completion, with further employment opportunities during the construction phase.
Project proponents Australian Renewable Fuels Pty Ltd, the wholly-owned subsidiary of oil and gas company Amadeus Energy Ltd, are negotiating with the South-West Development Commission for the purchase of a 10ha site at Picton.
The plant is proposed to be located at Picton within the Dardanup Shire and construction is due to commence in May 2002. An application for works approval is being undertaken by the Department of Environmental Protection.
Australian Renewable Fuels Pty Ltd has indicated that the proposed Picton operations may be expanded and that other biodiesel plants may be established around the State in the future.
Premier Geoff Gallop said the proposed plant was one of many projects that had the potential to be realised as a result of the Government's policy commitment to regional investor tours.
"Amadeus Energy Ltd took part in the Mid-West Regional Investor Tour in August 2001," Dr Gallop said.
"This is an example of how a regional investment tour can stimulate growth and create opportunities in the rural, regional and remote areas of the State."
Minister for the South-West Jim McGinty has welcomed the decision by Australian Renewable Fuels Pty Ltd to establish the plant in the South-West.
"The proponents were originally considering a site in the metropolitan area and I am delighted that the South-West will now reap the employment and other benefits from the construction and operation of the plant," Mr McGinty said.
Acting State Development Minister John Kobelke said the biodiesel plant was an exciting development that combined strong environmental and economic benefits.
Premier's office: 9222 9475