The need for community education about the benefits of bioenergy technology, particularly in agriculture and large industry, is a key concern for the bioenergy industry. Lack of community awareness about how bioenergy works, and how many systems are already installed was raised as a major barrier to expansion of the industry by technology developers and retailers.
Government response
Presently, Regional Development Victoria is putting together a Biomass Resource Assessment that may go towards filling this bioenergy knowledge vacuum. Ian Guss from Regional Development Victoria explained that one of the objectives of the Assessment is to communicate to regional industries how bioenergy can be used as a biowaste management strategy.
Another State Government initiative directed at promoting bioenergy technology uptake in Victoria’s industry base is the Department of Primary Industries’ Energy Technology Innovation Strategy. Jenniy Gregory, Manager Sustainable Technology Development with Department of Primary Industries explained that its single purpose is to drive prospective sustainable energy technologies down their respective cost curves and, in so doing, ensure that a portfolio of low-cost, low-emissions technologies are available for commercial deployment.
Ms Gregory also emphasised the importance of submitting comprehensive grant applications when seeking funding within the Energy Technology Innovation Strategy. Ms Gregory explained that a suitable funding application must illustrate how the project it refers to fits into a bigger picture of enhancing the transfer to clean energy technology, not just the specific merits of the individual project.
Additional speakers
Other speakers at the Breakfast included Nicole Nsair, Policy Analyst with the Clean Energy Council (CEC) who reviewed barriers identified by the CEC to bioenergy development in Australia, and Liz Hamilton, Senior Bioenergy Industry Officer with the Department of Primary Industries, who gave an update on bioenergy and biofuel projects within Victoria.
Action underway
While bioenergy industry players voiced concerns and aired grievances at the 4th Sustainability Victoria Bioenergy Breakfast, it was clear to all in attendance that state and private organisations alike are actively engaged in raising the profile of bioenergy in Victoria.
