Martin Ferguson (Batman, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Resources and Energy) Share this | Hansard source

The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:

(a) Negotiations between the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism and Solar Oasis Pty Ltd are continuing in accordance with the Renewable Energy Demonstration Program (REDP) Administrative Guidelines to finalise a Funding Deed for the Whyalla Solar Oasis project.

(b) The REDP aims to assist the demonstration and deployment of new renewable energy technologies. The Department has been working in good faith with SolarOasis, as it has with all REDP funding recipients, to ensure the proposed project is viable. This project is large, complex and attempts to deploy new and exciting technologies and production methodologies. This has resulted in some technical and commercial considerations that require resolution before the funding deed can be signed.

(c) Finalising the funding deed is a matter for the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism. I am satisfied the course of action being undertaken is appropriate and consistent with the Program Administrative Guidelines for the REDP. The Government remains committed to its $60 million offer to the project.

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