PRESS RELEASE
The Andrews Labor Government will invest $30 million to help Victoria’s farmers manage energy costs through improved efficiency and new technology.
Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford visited Boomaroo Nurseries in Lara today to launch the new Agriculture Energy Investment Plan.
The plan will help local farmers reduce energy costs, maintain competitiveness and create local jobs by providing on farm energy assessments, as well as grants to improve energy efficiency and install renewable energy systems.
These targets will cut the average cost of power for Victorians, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and importantly create new jobs.
The Agriculture Energy Investment Plan will start in 2018 and provides:
In our initial consultation, the Victorian Farmers Federation informed us that cost, reliability and access were the key pain points for farmers. The On-Farm Energy Survey carried out by Agriculture Victoria provided the evidence to support an on-farm energy initiative.
The survey revealed that investment cost, the speed of technology change and uncertainty about implementation were preventing farmers from improving energy efficiency and pursuing alternative energy options.
The Plan is a partnership between primary producers, agricultural groups, Sustainability Victoria, educational groups and government, with an advisory group to be formed to advise on the investment plan’s implementation.
The Agriculture Energy Investment Plan is funded by the Labor Government’s $200 million Agricultural Investment Jobs Fund, which supports projects that improve farm productivity, boost market access, grow exports and increase jobs.
To register your interest and learn more about the plan, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/agenergy
The Victorian Renewable Energy Targets will ensure 25 per cent of the state’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources by 2020, and increasing to 40 per cent by 2025.
The Labor Government’s Energy, Efficiency and Productivity Strategy establishes a tangible work program aimed at improving energy affordability, create jobs, encourage investment in new energy technologies and build a sustainable economy.
Victorian businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the full range of Government programs designed to
help businesses manage their energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Media Contact: Tom Whitty 0488 084 717| tom.whitty@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Other programs to assist businesses reduce their energy costs and emissions include Boosting Business
Productivity program and Better Commercial Buildings grants program.
To find out more about Victorian Energy Upgrades and other efficiency programs go to business.vic.gov.au
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