Published on Friday, 9 June 2023 at 2:06:41 PM
Geraldton Airport Precinct is set to receive its very own renewable energy microgrid after securing more than $2 million in the Federal Government’s Disaster Ready Fund.
The microgrid will serve as an uninterruptible power supply for emergency services in the area and bolster regional resilience – a key priority for the Midwest after Cyclone Seroja tore through two years ago.
This addition also makes the Geraldton Airport Precinct the first airport in the nation to have its own source of renewable energy.
Thanks to the Federal Government’s support and a co-contribution from the City of Greater Geraldton, construction of the project is planned to commence early next year said City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn.
“A huge thank you to the Federal Government for their support – we are fortunate to be receiving the biggest financial backing in the state,” he said.
“The Airport Microgrid Project will increase the Midwest’s resilience and allow emergency services to continue operations during a crisis thanks to the green energy that we will be able to produce and store.
“This is a big win for the region and allows us to get one step closer to achieving our goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2030. Carbon emissions will be significantly reduced thanks to this innovative and robust project.”
The Airport Microgrid Project will be built to cyclone rated resilience standards in the event a natural disaster should occur.
It will also assist the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and the Geraldton Airport to support operations combatting major bushfires, which are becoming an increasing occurrence during Australia’s warmer months.
The Airport Microgrid Project is a $4.2 million initiative with the City of Greater Geraldton contributing $2.2 million and the Federal Government providing a further $2 million.
More information on the project will be announced in the coming months.
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